teriflunomide

What is teriflunomide, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?

Teriflunomide is an oral immunomodulatory agent used for the treatment of patients with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). It inhibits dihydroorotate dehydrogenase, an enzyme used to make pyrimidine which is used to build DNA. The exact mechanism of action of teriflunomide in the treatment of MS is unknown. However, it is thought to reduce the over activation of the immune system by decreasing the number of white blood cells (T and B lymphocytes) in the central nervous system. Teriflunomide decreases the number of MS relapses. The FDA approved teriflunomide in September 2013.

What brand names are available for teriflunomide?

Aubagio

Is teriflunomide available as a generic drug?

GENERIC AVAILABLE: No

Do I need a prescription for teriflunomide?

Yes

What are the side effects of teriflunomide?

The most common side effects associated with teriflunomide treatment are

  • alopecia (hair thinning or loss),
  • diarrhea,
  • influenza,
  • paresthesia (tingling, burning, prickling or pricking sensations of the skin),
  • and increase in liver enzymes.

Serious liver injury, kidney problems, decrease in white blood cell counts, risk for serious infections such as

What is the dosage for teriflunomide?

The recommended dose is one 7 mg or 14 mg tablet once daily with or without food. Note that a monthly blood test for liver enzyme measurements for 6 months is recommended to detect potential liver problems (see side effects section).

Which drugs or supplements interact with teriflunomide?

Teriflunomide may increase blood levels of

Teriflunomide may also decrease the effectiveness of warfarin (Coumadin) and increases the risk for blood clots.

Teriflunomide may increase the effects of oral contraceptives (birth control pills) containing ethinylestradiol or levonorgestrel.

Teriflunomide may decrease the blood levels of drugs such as

Blood levels of teriflunomide may be increased by

SLIDESHOW

What Is Multiple Sclerosis? MS Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis See Slideshow

Is teriflunomide safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

It is not known whether teriflunomide is secreted into breast milk.

What else should I know about teriflunomide?

What preparations of teriflunomide are available?

Film-coated tablets: 7 mg and 14 mg

How should I keep teriflunomide stored?

STORAGE: Tablets should to be stored at 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F), but also may be stored at 15 C to 30 C (59 F to 86 F)

Summary

teriflunomide (Aubagio) is a prescription drug prescribed to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) in individuals with MS. Side effects, drug interactions, dosage, storage, and pregnancy safety information should be reviewed prior to taking this medication.

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You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

References
Medically reviewed by John Cunha, DO

REFERENCE: FDA Prescribing Information.