Leflunomide Oral Suspension (Anhydrous)
Leflunomide is a compounded formulation containing Leflunomide, prepared by Mixlab for veterinary use. Available by prescription.
How to Give Anhydrous Oral Suspension
Oral Suspension (Anhydrous) is a liquid medication that does not contain water in its base. This might be an oil-based or other special base to help stabilize the medicine. It will look like a regular liquid medication, but often needs a good shake because the drug can settle. Here's how to give it:
- Shake well each time to mix the medication (5-10 seconds).
- Measure the dose using the syringe/dropper provided or one recommended by your vet. Insert the top of the oral syringe into the bottle adapter. Turn the bottle upside down and pull the plunger until the medicine reaches the volume required
- Hold your pet steady: a towel or helper can assist with squirmy pets.
- Administer the dose slowly into the side of the mouth. Allow small pauses if needed for swallowing.
- Raise the head slightly to help the medication go down and clean any spills with a little water or tissue.
- Praise your pet and offer a treat or water (unless advised against feeding right after).
- Clean the syringe with water immediately after use. Store the bottle as directed, out of sunlight.
- Consistency is key: Shake each time, measure accurately, and contact your vet if any issues arise.
The uses and pharmacology described below reflect the FDA-approved labeling for this active ingredient; your veterinarian determines whether and how they apply to your animal's treatment plan.
Leflunomide is an immunomodulatory agent utilized in veterinary medicine for the management of various immune-mediated challenges. It is a prescription medication available for use in dogs and cats, requiring professional guidance and monitoring by a licensed veterinarian. It is frequently considered in the context of immune-mediated diseases for patients presented with immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) or polyarthritis.
Prescription only. Use only under the direction of a licensed veterinarian. This information is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, prescribing or monitoring. Compounded drugs are not approved by the FDA for safety or effectiveness.
At a pharmacological level, it is considered for its role in managing the production of lymphocytes by influencing de novo pyrimidine synthesis. Commonly observed effects include localized digestive changes such as vomiting or diarrhea and behavioral shifts like lethargy. Because it influences the immune system, your veterinarian will monitor for observational signs of bone marrow suppression or liver sensitivity through regular blood tests. Owners should monitor for any unusual bruising, pale gums or skin changes and contact their veterinarian promptly with any concerns.
Yes. Leflunomide is a prescription medication and requires a valid authorization from a licensed veterinarian. Mixlab ensures all legal and professional standards are met before dispensing.
Yes. Mixlab specializes in compounding leflunomide into customized strengths and flavored oral formats, such as flavored oral liquids, to suit the specific needs of your pet.
Veterinarians discuss leflunomide in the context of immune-mediated conditions because it is considered to influence the activity of overactive white blood cells. Your veterinarian will determine if it is appropriate for your pet's specific case.
Your veterinarian will recommend frequent blood work, including a complete blood count (CBC) and liver enzymes. This monitoring ensures the management approach remains safe for your pet's health status.
Leflunomide is often used in combination with other immunosuppressants. Your veterinarian will determine the most appropriate protocol and monitor for observational signs of cumulative immune suppression.
