Drug Interaction Report

Leflunomide may cause liver problems, and using it with other medications that can also affect the liver such as nintedanib may increase that risk. Because leflunomide can stay in your blood for a prolonged period after the last dose, interactions with other drugs may occur for some time even after you have stopped taking it. You should avoid or limit the use of alcohol while being treated with these medications. Call your doctor immediately if you have fever, chills, joint pain or swelling, unusual bleeding or bruising, skin rash, itching, loss of appetite, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark colored urine, light colored stools, and/or yellowing of the skin or eyes, as these may be signs and symptoms of liver damage. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Leflunomide can be taken with or without food. It is important to take leflunomide regularly to get the most benefit. Discuss with your doctor the use of alcohol while taking leflunomide. Alcohol and leflunomide can both be damaging to the liver.

Grapefruit juice and Seville orange juice can increase the blood levels of nintedanib. This may increase the risk and/or severity of side effects such as liver problems, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach or intestinal wall perforation, bleeding, and cardiovascular problems such as heart attack, chest pain, or stroke. It is best to avoid or minimize the consumption of Seville oranges, Seville orange juice, grapefruit, and grapefruit juice during treatment. You should take nintedanib with food and swallow it whole with water. Taking nintedanib with food may help with absorption of the medication and reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions on how to take this or other medications you are prescribed. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.