An Observational Study of Leflunomide in the Treatment of Lupus Nephritis When Cyclophosphamide Was Invalid or Not Tolerated

This observational study investigated the efficacy and reliability of leflunomide combined with prednisone in treating lupus nephritis when cyclophosphamide was ineffective or not tolerated. The study involved 23 patients, with 22 completing the trial. Patients showed some response by the second month and significant improvement by the third or fourth month, which was maintained at six months. The SLEDAI scores improved significantly, with a total effective rate of 77%. Side effects were few and mild, including gastrointestinal symptoms, shingles, and hair loss. The study concluded that leflunomide combined with prednisone was effective and well-tolerated for patients who could not use cyclophosphamide.