Gilenya (Fingolimod) is a prescription medication used to prevent episodes of symptoms and slow the worsening of disability in adults and children 10 years of age and older with relapsing-remitting forms of multiple sclerosis. Multiple sclerosis is a disease where the nerves do not function properly. People with this disease may experience weakness, numbness, muscle coordination loss, and problems with vision, speech, and bladder control. The active ingredient in Gilenya is Fingolimod. Fingolimod belongs to a class of medicines called sphingosine l-phosphate receptor modulators. It works by preventing the immune system cells from attacking the nerves in the brain and spinal cord. This drug decreases the number of episodes of worsening and may prevent or delay disability. Gilenya is not a cure for multiple sclerosis. It will only decrease the frequency of the relapse symptoms.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Gilenya from Canada manufactured by Novartis. The generic Fingolimod also comes from Canada by a different manufacturer. The brand Gilenya and the generic Fingolimod is available in the strength of 0.5 mg tablets only.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while taking Gilenya. The most common side effects of Gilenya may include the following:
• Back pain;
• Cough;
• Diarrhea;
• Flu symptoms;
• Headache;
• Pain in the arms or legs;
• Stomach pain;
• Stuffy nose
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Appetite loss;
• Balance problems;
• Dark urine;
• Enlarged thyroid;
• Jaundice;
• Light-headedness;
• Menstrual changes;
• Sores in your mouth or throat;
• Speaking difficulties;
• Sudden confusion;
• Swallowing difficulties;
• Swollen glands;
• Weight loss
These are not all of the side effects of Gilenya. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not take Gilenya if you are allergic to Fingolimod or any ingredient in Gilenya. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to be pregnant;
• Have a serious heart condition like sick sinus syndrome or AV block;
• Have a weak immune system;
• Have diabetes;
• Have had a recent heart attack, stroke, or chest pain;
• Have had a recent vaccination;
• Have high blood pressure;
• Have liver disease;
• Have skin cancer;
• Have sleep apnea
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Gilenya and amiodarone, disopyramide, dofetilide, quinidine, sotalol, propafenone, etc. Avoid diltiazem, chlorpromazine, verapamil, digoxin, erythromycin, or ketoconazole with Gilenya. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Gilenya may harm an unborn baby. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy during your treatment with Fingolimod and at least 2 months after your last dose. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. It is unknown if Fingolimod passes into breast milk. Take Gilenya precisely as prescribed by your doctor. Take the drug once per day with or without food. Remove the tablet from its blister pack with dry hands only when you are ready to take the medicine. Gilenya is an orally disintegrating tablet. Allow the tablet to dissolve in your mouth without chewing. This drug can slow your heart rate when you start taking it. You will receive your first dose in a medical setting. Your doctor will monitor your blood pressure and heart rate after your first dose of Gilenya. Do not stop taking this medicine without talking to your doctor. Your condition may get worse if you stop taking Gilenya suddenly. If you stop taking this medicine, do not start it again without your doctor’s advice. Gilenya may increase your risk of developing skin cancer. Limit your sun exposure. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Keep this medicine out of sight and reach of children. Store in the original container at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
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