Aubagio, whose active ingredient is teriflunomide, is a medication commonly prescribed to manage relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). Like many drugs, it comes with a range of potential side effects that vary in severity and frequency. Understanding these side effects can help patients and caregivers recognize what to expect and when to seek medical advice.
One of the most frequently reported side effects of Aubagio is **hair thinning or hair loss**. This occurs because teriflunomide can affect the hair growth cycle, leading to mild to moderate hair thinning in some patients. However, this hair loss is usually not severe, tends to be temporary, and often resolves without needing to stop the medication. Many patients notice this side effect starting a few months after beginning treatment, and it typically lasts only a couple of months. It’s important to note that hair loss can also be influenced by other factors such as stress, other medications, or underlying health conditions, so it’s not always directly caused by Aubagio.
Another common side effect is **gastrointestinal discomfort**, including diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain. These symptoms can range from mild to moderate and may improve over time as the body adjusts to the medication. Some patients might experience a loss of appetite or general stomach upset, which can affect their overall well-being.
**Headaches** are also frequently reported by people taking Aubagio. These headaches can vary in intensity and may be accompanied by dizziness or fatigue. While often manageable, persistent or severe headaches should be discussed with a healthcare provider to rule out other causes or complications.
Aubagio can affect the liver, so **liver function abnormalities** are a significant concern. Patients on Aubagio typically undergo regular blood tests to monitor liver enzymes because elevated levels can indicate liver stress or damage. Symptoms that might suggest liver problems include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark-colored urine, unusual fatigue, or abdominal pain on the right side. If any of these signs appear, immediate medical evaluation is necessary.
Because Aubagio modulates the immune system, it can increase the risk of **infections**. This is due to its immunosuppressive effects, which reduce the immune system’s ability to fight off pathogens. Patients may be more susceptible to common infections like colds or urinary tract infections, and in rare cases, more serious infections can occur. It’s important for patients to report any signs of infection such as fever, chills, persistent cough, or painful urination to their doctor promptly.
Some people may experience **allergic reactions** to Aubagio, which can range from mild skin rashes or itching to more severe reactions involving swelling, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis. Injection site reactions are not applicable here since Aubagio is an oral medication, but skin-related symptoms can still occur.
Other side effects include **fatigue and weakness**, which are common in MS itself but can be exacerbated by the medication. Patients might also report **respiratory symptoms** such as sinusitis or upper respiratory infections, which again relate to the immune system’s altered function.
Aubagio is known to be **teratogenic**, meaning it can cause serious birth defects if taken during pregnancy. Women of childbearing age must use effective contraception during treatment and for a significant period after stopping the drug. Men are also advised to discuss reproductive plans with their healthcare provider because teriflunomide can remain in the body for an extended time.
In rare cases, Aubagio can cause **blood abnormalities**, such as low white blood cell counts, which further increase infection risk, or other hematologic issues. Regular blood monitoring helps detect these problems early.
Some patients might experience **mood changes or depression**, although these are less commonly reported. Because MS itself can affect mental health, it can be difficult to determine whether these symptoms are due to the disease or the medication, but they warrant attentio
