What condition does Fingolimod treat?

Fingolimod is used for the treatment of relapsing multiple sclerosis. Multiple sclerosis is a neurological condition. It is where the immune system attacks the protective covering of nerves. This type of condition occurs when symptoms show up from time to time.

This medication is not a cure for MS. This will help prevent the immune system cells or lymphocytes from attacking the nerves in your brain or spinal cord.  This will help you decrease the number of episodes of worsening and prevent or delay disability.

Fingolimod belongs to a group of drugs called sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1-P) receptor modulators. This comes as a capsule for oral administration. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already approved this medication since 2010.

How does Fingolimod work?

It is not fully unstated how Fingolimod works because multiple sclerosis and its cause are not fully understood. On the other hand, it is believed to help lessen the frequency and severity of the relapses by lowering the number of lymphocytes in the central nervous system. Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell.

This medicine prevents the release of these lymphocytes from the lymph nodes. This stops them from moving without restrictions into the central nervous system, where they can harm nerve cells in the spinal cord and brain.

Fingolimod helps to reduce the frequency and severity of the relapses. It does not cure the disease.

What is the recommended dosage for Fingolimod?

Fingolimod is to be taken by mouth usually once a day. You may take each dose with or without food. You will be monitored for at least 6 hours after taking each dose.

Take this medication exactly as it is prescribed. Do not increase your dose or take it more often. Your condition will not improve any faster. It may also cause a high risk of serious side effects. Remember to take this drug at the same time every day.

A small number of people using this medicine have had multiple sclerosis symptoms become much worse or become permanently disabled after stopping the medication. For this reason, do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor first. If your doctor temporarily stops your medication, you may need to be heartbeat-monitored again for at least 6 hours after you restart this medication. Children who have their dose increased may also need to be monitored again for 6 hours. Ask your doctor for details.

What are the side effects of Fingolimod?

• Tired feeling
• Headache
• Stuffy nose
• Back pain
• Diarrhea
• Cough

What are the precautions in taking Fingolimod?

• Tell your doctor if you are allergic to this drug.
• Do not share this with others who have the same symptoms as yours.
• Let your doctor know if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.
• Inform your doctor if you have any medical history or current treatments/medications.
• You should not receive vaccinations/immunizations while taking this drug. You cannot receive any of it for 2 months after your last dose without consulting your doctor.
• Keep this away from heat and moisture.