Fingolimod

Fingolimod Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Fingolimod is a brand name. Its generic name is Fingolimod.

Introduction

Fingolimod is a medicine which is used to treat relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS) in adult adults. It belongs to the class of drugs called sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulators or immunomodulators. It works by decreasing the activity of the immune system, which can reduce the number and severity of MS relapses and result in improved physical function.

Uses For

Fingolimod is used to reduce the number and severity of relapses of multiple sclerosis (MS) in adults. It works by decreasing the activity of the immune system, resulting in improved physical function.

Mechanism of Action

Fingolimod works by binding to S1P receptors located on immune cells such as T cells and B cells. This binding blocks the release of the cells from the lymph nodes, preventing them from entering the blood circulation and reducing the number of relapses of MS.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

It usually takes several weeks for Fingolimod to start working. It can take several months or even years to see the full benefit of Fingolimod in reducing the number and severity of MS relapses.

Absorption

Fingolimod is readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. It reaches its maximum concentration in 1-2 hours after oral administration.

Route of Elimination

Fingolimod is eliminated primarily by the liver. A small portion is eliminated in the feces and urine.

Dose

The recommended dose of Fingolimod is 0.5mg (one capsule) taken orally once daily in the morning. It should be taken with food. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible, unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.

Administration

Fingolimod should be taken orally once daily in the morning with food.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Fingolimod are headache, diarrhea, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, abdominal pain, upper respiratory tract infection, and cough.

Toxicity

Fingolimod is generally well-tolerated. However, it can cause serious and potentially life-threatening side effects such as liver toxicity, low levels of white blood cells, a weakened immune system, macular edema, bradycardia, and decreased cardiac contractility.

Precaution

Patients should be advised to notify their healthcare provider if any of the following occur while taking Fingolimod: new or worsening MS symptoms, liver toxicity, low white blood cell count, signs of infection, macular edema, or bradycardia.

Interaction

Fingolimod can interact with certain other medications such as live attenuated vaccines, stavudine, voriconazole, and telithromycin. Patients should discuss any other medications they are taking with their healthcare provider before starting Fingolimod.

Disease Interaction

Fingolimod is not recommended for use in patients with certain diseases such as active hepatitis B or C or a history of a clinically significant liver disorder.

Drug Interaction

Food Interactions

Fingolimod should be taken with food. It is not known if Fingolimod interacts with food.

Pregnancy Use

Fingolimod is not recommended for use in pregnant women. Pregnant women should inform their healthcare provider if they become pregnant while taking Fingolimod.

Lactation Use

It is not known if Fingolimod passes into breastmilk. Nursing mothers should discuss the risks and benefits of taking Fingolimod with their healthcare provider.

Acute Overdose

In the event of an overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Contraindication

Fingolimod is contraindicated in patients with active hepatitis B or C or a history of a clinically significant liver disorder.

Use Direction

The recommended dose of Fingolimod is 0.5mg (one capsule) taken orally once daily in the morning with food.

Storage Condition

Fingolimod should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of Fingolimod is approximately 3.6 L/kg.

Half Life

The half life of Fingolimod is approximately 1-2 days.

Clearance

The clearance of Fingolimod is approximately 17 L/h/kg.

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Some Frequently Asked Questions About Fingolimod