What Are the Side Effects of Aubagio? Your Comprehensive Guide 🌿

Aubagio (teriflunomide) is a medication commonly prescribed to treat multiple sclerosis (MS). It helps reduce the frequency of relapses by suppressing the immune response. However, like many medications, Aubagio can cause a range of side effects. Understanding these side effects and knowing how long they last or how to manage them is key to having a successful treatment experience.


Key Takeaways: Quick Answers on Aubagio Side Effects

  • What are the most common side effects? 🌡️
    Common side effects include hair thinning, nausea, and liver issues.
  • Can these side effects be managed? 💡
    Yes, most side effects can be managed with medication adjustments or lifestyle changes.
  • How long do the side effects last? ⏳
    Some side effects, like headaches or nausea, tend to subside within weeks, while others, like hair thinning, may persist throughout treatment.
  • Are there serious side effects to watch out for? ⚠️
    Yes, liver damage and infections can be severe and require immediate medical attention.
  • When should I contact my healthcare provider? 🚨
    Seek medical advice if you notice signs of liver issues, such as jaundice or unexplained fatigue.

🌡️ What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Aubagio?

While Aubagio can be effective in reducing MS relapses, patients may experience several common side effects, including:

  • Hair Thinning 👩‍🦳: One of the most frequent side effects, it usually occurs within the first few months of treatment and can be mild to moderate.
  • Nausea 🤢: This is also a common symptom that patients report, often in the initial phase of starting the medication.
  • Headache 🤕: Some patients experience mild to moderate headaches that may occur intermittently.
  • Liver Problems 🩺: Elevated liver enzymes can indicate liver stress, and this is closely monitored with blood tests during treatment.
  • Diarrhea 💩: While not severe in most cases, diarrhea can be an uncomfortable side effect.
Side EffectFrequency💡 Tip
Hair Thinning 👩‍🦳Common (within the first months)Be gentle with hair care; avoid harsh treatments 💇‍♀️
Nausea 🤢Common in early weeksEating smaller meals can help alleviate discomfort 🍽️
Headache 🤕Common, especially at the startStay hydrated and take breaks throughout the day 💧
Liver Problems 🩺Monitored with regular blood testsAvoid alcohol to reduce liver strain 🍷❌
Diarrhea 💩Mild to moderate for some patientsStay hydrated and avoid rich, fatty foods 🌾

💡 Can These Side Effects Be Managed?

Yes, the side effects of Aubagio can often be managed with proactive measures. Here’s a breakdown of management strategies for common side effects:

  • Hair Thinning: If hair thinning becomes bothersome, it may help to use gentle hair care products, avoid heat styling, and consider supplements such as biotin (after consulting your doctor). Hair thinning tends to stabilize after the first few months.
  • Nausea: Eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding heavy or greasy foods, and staying hydrated can help. If nausea persists, your doctor might suggest an anti-nausea medication.
  • Headaches: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help with mild headaches, but it’s crucial to discuss persistent headaches with your healthcare provider to rule out other causes.
  • Liver Issues: Monitoring is key. Regular liver function tests will ensure early detection of any problems, and avoiding alcohol will reduce the liver’s workload.
  • Diarrhea: Staying hydrated and eating bland, low-fiber foods can help manage this side effect. If diarrhea becomes persistent, consult your doctor for further advice.
SymptomManagement Strategy💡 Tip
Hair Thinning 👩‍🦳Gentle hair care and possible supplementsAvoid harsh styling and consider using a wide-tooth comb 💇‍♀️
Nausea 🤢Small, frequent mealsOpt for bland, easy-to-digest foods like toast 🍞
Headaches 🤕Over-the-counter pain relieversTake regular breaks and limit screen time 🖥️
Liver Issues 🩺Regular blood testsAvoid alcohol and discuss any unusual symptoms 🚫
Diarrhea 💩Hydration and dietary adjustmentsAvoid dairy and high-fiber foods until symptoms improve 🥛❌

How Long Do Aubagio Side Effects Last?

The duration of Aubagio’s side effects can vary depending on the individual and the side effect in question:

  • Hair Thinning 👩‍🦳: This usually occurs within the first few months and may persist but can stabilize as the body adjusts to the medication.
  • Nausea 🤢: Often seen in the first few weeks of treatment, nausea typically improves as the body adapts to the medication.
  • Headaches 🤕: These tend to occur more frequently at the start of treatment and may subside over time.
  • Liver Issues 🩺: Elevated liver enzymes can appear early and may persist, which is why continuous monitoring is essential.
  • Diarrhea 💩: Diarrhea can last a few weeks as your digestive system adjusts but should not be persistent throughout the course of treatment.
Side EffectDuration💡 Tip
Hair Thinning 👩‍🦳May persist throughout treatmentUse gentle hair products and limit heat styling tools 🔥
Nausea 🤢Typically resolves in a few weeksEat small, frequent meals and stay hydrated 💧
Headache 🤕Common in the early weeks, may fade over timeRest and hydrate; consider taking breaks often 🛌
Liver Issues 🩺Ongoing, requires monitoringRoutine blood tests are crucial for detecting problems early 🩺
Diarrhea 💩Often subsides after the first few weeksKeep hydrated and consider dietary adjustments 🥛❌

⚠️ Are There Serious Side Effects to Watch Out For?

Yes, while most of Aubagio’s side effects are mild and manageable, some serious side effects require immediate attention. These include:

  • Liver Damage 🩺: Elevated liver enzymes can indicate liver stress or damage, which can progress to more severe liver conditions. Signs include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or unexplained fatigue.
  • Infections 🦠: Aubagio can suppress your immune system, increasing your susceptibility to infections. Signs of infection include fever, chills, persistent sore throat, or cough.
  • Kidney Problems 💧: Less common but possible, kidney issues may arise and manifest as decreased urination or swelling in the legs.
  • Peripheral Neuropathy 🦵: Nerve damage causing numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands and feet may occur in some patients.
Serious Side EffectSigns to Watch For💡 Tip
Liver Damage 🩺Jaundice, dark urine, fatigueContact your doctor if you notice yellowing of the skin or extreme tiredness 🚨
Infections 🦠Fever, chills, persistent sore throatWash hands regularly and avoid contact with sick individuals 🧴
Kidney Problems 💧Reduced urination, leg swellingReport any noticeable changes in urination habits 💦
Peripheral Neuropathy 🦵Tingling or numbness in hands and feetInform your healthcare provider about any new sensations in your extremities 👣

🚨 When Should I Contact My Healthcare Provider About Side Effects?

It’s important to stay in regular communication with your healthcare provider during your treatment with Aubagio, particularly if you experience unusual or worsening side effects. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following:

  • Jaundice or dark urine: These are potential signs of liver damage and should be addressed promptly.
  • Severe or persistent diarrhea: This can lead to dehydration and may require medical intervention.
  • Signs of infection: Fever, chills, or a sore throat that doesn’t go away could indicate a weakened immune system.
  • Numbness or tingling: If you experience these symptoms, it may be a sign of nerve damage, and your treatment plan may need adjustment.
SymptomWhen to Seek Help💡 Tip
Jaundice 🟡Yellowing of the skin or dark urineCall your doctor immediately if you experience these symptoms 📞
Severe Diarrhea 💩If diarrhea persists for more than a few daysStay hydrated, but seek medical advice if symptoms don’t improve 💧
Signs of Infection 🦠Fever, chills, sore throatContact your doctor if these signs persist or worsen 🚨
Numbness/Tingling 🦵Persistent numbness or tingling in the limbsReport any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider 🩺

🌟 Final Thoughts: Managing Aubagio Side Effects

Understanding the side effects of Aubagio and how to manage them can help ensure a smoother treatment experience. While many of the side effects are mild and temporary, it’s important to stay vigilant for signs of more serious complications and to maintain an open line of communication with your healthcare provider. By monitoring your symptoms and taking proactive steps, you can manage the side effects of Aubagio effectively while continuing your MS treatment.


🗝️ Quick Recap: Aubagio Side Effects

  • Common Side Effects 🌡️: Hair thinning, nausea, headache, and liver issues.
  • Management Tips 💡: Rest, hydration, gentle care for hair, and regular monitoring for liver health.
  • Duration ⏳: Some side effects last for weeks, while others may persist throughout treatment.
  • Serious Risks ⚠️: Liver damage, infections, kidney problems, and nerve damage.
  • When to Call the Doctor 🚨: Report jaundice, persistent infections, or severe numbness.

By staying informed and engaged with your healthcare team, you can navigate Aubagio’s side effects with confidence. 💪


Comment 1: “Can Aubagio cause weight loss, and is it something to be concerned about?”

Yes, weight loss can occur as a side effect of Aubagio, but the reasons vary. Often, weight loss is tied to other symptoms, such as nausea, diarrhea, or a loss of appetite, all of which are common with Aubagio. When these gastrointestinal side effects persist, they can make it difficult to maintain proper nutrition and caloric intake, leading to unintentional weight loss.

It’s important to monitor your weight closely during treatment, especially if you notice a significant or rapid drop. While some weight fluctuation may not be cause for concern, consistent weight loss should be discussed with your healthcare provider. Addressing underlying symptoms like nausea or diarrhea can help manage weight loss. Your doctor might adjust your dosage or recommend nutritional support to ensure your body gets the nutrients it needs. In the meantime, consider small, frequent meals rich in protein and calories to combat appetite loss and maintain your energy levels.


Comment 2: “How often should I have blood tests to monitor liver function while on Aubagio?”

Frequent blood tests are crucial when you’re taking Aubagio, as the medication can affect liver function. Typically, your healthcare provider will order blood tests to check liver enzyme levels before starting treatment, and then monthly for the first six months. After that, liver monitoring may occur every 6-12 months, depending on your doctor’s recommendations and how well your liver is tolerating the medication.

These tests measure levels of ALT and AST, enzymes that increase when the liver is stressed or damaged. If liver enzymes rise significantly, your doctor may recommend temporarily stopping or adjusting the dose of Aubagio to prevent further liver damage. During this time, it’s important to avoid anything that could further strain your liver, including alcohol or certain medications, and report any signs of liver issues—such as jaundice or unusual fatigue—right away. Proactive monitoring helps catch liver issues early, reducing the risk of long-term damage.


Comment 3: “Can Aubagio cause hair loss, and will it grow back once I stop treatment?”

Yes, hair thinning or hair loss is a known side effect of Aubagio, although it’s typically more of a thinning than complete hair loss. This side effect generally occurs within the first few months of treatment and is considered reversible for most people. Once you stop taking Aubagio, your hair should gradually regrow, although the timeline for this can vary. Hair typically starts to grow back within a few months, but for some, it may take longer to return to its pre-treatment fullness.

To help protect your hair during treatment, consider using gentle hair products, avoiding heat styling tools like blow dryers and straighteners, and minimizing chemical treatments (like coloring or perming). If hair thinning becomes bothersome, speak with your doctor about possible options for supporting hair health during treatment, such as biotin supplements or other hair-strengthening products. Remember, while hair loss can be distressing, it’s usually temporary and manageable with the right care.


Comment 4: “Is it safe to continue taking Aubagio if I get a cold or minor infection?”

It depends on the severity of the infection and your overall health. Aubagio can suppress the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections, including colds, flu, or other respiratory illnesses. If you develop a minor infection, such as a cold, it’s important to monitor your symptoms closely. While many mild infections don’t require stopping treatment, you should contact your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms.

If the infection worsens—leading to fever, persistent cough, or difficulty breathing—or if you develop more serious symptoms, it might be necessary to pause Aubagio temporarily while you recover. In these cases, your doctor will evaluate the risk of continuing treatment versus the benefit and may suggest antibiotics or other medications to help manage the infection. Always inform your doctor if you’re feeling unwell, and avoid contact with people who are sick to reduce your risk of catching infections while on Aubagio.


Comment 5: “Are there any long-term risks to taking Aubagio?”

Yes, while Aubagio is effective in managing multiple sclerosis (MS), there are potential long-term risks associated with its use. One of the most significant concerns is liver damage, which is why regular liver function tests are essential throughout your treatment. Over time, if liver enzymes remain elevated, this can indicate chronic liver stress, potentially leading to more serious conditions like liver failure if not addressed.

Another long-term risk is peripheral neuropathy, a condition where nerves in the hands and feet become damaged, leading to numbness, tingling, or pain. Although this is a rarer side effect, it can become permanent if not detected and treated early. Additionally, reduced immune function is another concern, as Aubagio lowers the body’s ability to fight infections. This could lead to more frequent or severe infections, and in some cases, serious bacterial or viral infections.

However, most long-term side effects are manageable with proper monitoring and early intervention. Regular check-ups, including blood tests and neurological exams, will help catch any issues early on. If you have concerns about long-term risks, speak openly with your healthcare provider to discuss personalized strategies for minimizing potential side effects while continuing your treatment.


Comment 6: “Can I take other medications or supplements with Aubagio?”

It’s important to be cautious when combining Aubagio with other medications or supplements due to potential interactions. Aubagio can affect how other drugs are metabolized, particularly those processed by the liver. For example, certain medications used to treat infections, high cholesterol, or pain might interact with Aubagio, leading to increased side effects or decreased efficacy.

Supplements, such as St. John’s Wort, may also interfere with how Aubagio is processed in the body. Additionally, some over-the-counter medications, particularly non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, could further stress the liver when taken with Aubagio.

Always inform your healthcare provider of any new medications, over-the-counter drugs, or supplements you’re considering. In many cases, adjustments can be made to ensure safety. For example, your doctor may suggest an alternative pain reliever or supplement that doesn’t interact with Aubagio. Open communication about all substances you’re taking helps minimize the risk of dangerous interactions.


Comment 7: “What are the signs that Aubagio might be affecting my kidneys?”

While kidney problems are less common with Aubagio, they are still a possible side effect. Signs that Aubagio may be affecting your kidneys include reduced urination, swelling in your legs or ankles, unexplained fatigue, or high blood pressure. You might also notice foamy urine, which could indicate protein leakage, a sign of kidney stress.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact your doctor immediately. They will likely perform a urinalysis and blood tests to check kidney function. Early detection is critical, as kidney issues can worsen over time if left untreated. By catching kidney problems early, your healthcare provider can adjust your treatment plan or suggest interventions to protect kidney health, such as increasing fluid intake or prescribing medications to support kidney function.


Comment 8: “Can Aubagio impact pregnancy, and what precautions should I take?”

Aubagio is classified as Category X for pregnancy, meaning it can cause serious harm to an unborn baby and should not be taken during pregnancy. Women taking Aubagio should use effective contraception to prevent pregnancy throughout their treatment. If you’re planning to conceive, it’s crucial to stop taking Aubagio well in advance. The drug can stay in your system for up to two years after stopping it, although there is a way to accelerate its elimination with a procedure called cholestyramine washout. This procedure helps remove the medication from your body more quickly, making it safer for future pregnancies.

If you become pregnant while taking Aubagio, contact your doctor immediately to discuss next steps. Men taking Aubagio should also take precautions, as the drug can be present in sperm and may pose risks to a partner’s pregnancy. Family planning discussions with your healthcare provider are essential when you’re on Aubagio, ensuring you have the right protection and guidance for safe conception in the future.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Back to Top