Teriflunomid

Abstract

Since 10/2013 teriflunomide is licensed as a new oral substance for multiple sclerosis therapy in Germany. The substance has been tested in large-scale clinical studies and proven to be effective in the therapy of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Applied in the admitted dosage of 14 mg/day it significantly reduced the relapse rate and slowed down the progression of disability. Considering these features and the fact that it needs to be applied only once a day teriflunomide can be considered as an alternative to approved first-line therapies such as interferon beta und glatiramer acetate. Teriflunomide reversibly inhibits pyrimidine synthesis and therefore reduced proliferation and cytokine secretion in proliferating immune cells. This method of action is already known from its prodrug leflunomide (Arava®), which is licensed for the treatment of active rheumatoid arthritis for years. Teriflunomide's safety profile is well-known. Nevertheless blood cell counts and liver enzymes have to be checked regularly under therapy. Teriflunomide is contraindicated during pregnancy. The following article provides a short overview on mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics, relevant study data and the role of teriflunomide in MS therapy.