Fingolimod (Gilenya®) is the first oral agent approved by the FDA in 2010 as a disease modifying treatment for MS. It is given at a dose of .5mg capsule taken once per day by mouth with or without food. It is a new class of MS medication called a sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulator. The medication mechanism of action can reduce neurodegeneration by reducing inflammatory damage to nerve cells. Side effects patients may develop include bradycardia, atrioventricular block, hypotension and other cardiac manifestations. Patients must be followed closely after an initial dose to recognize and treat these events if they occur. Other adverse events which require further investigation include development of macular edema, neoplasms and infections. Individuals who have questions about Fingolimod (Gilenya) should contact their healthcare provider.
For more information, refer to the articles below:Fingolimod (Gilenya®): Criteria for Use - June 2012 update
Date Updated: May 21, 2012