Perhaps your doctor has prescribed Ozanimod for you because you have conditions like Multiple Sclerosis (MS) or Ulcerative Colitis (UC). It's normal to have a lot of questions when you start a new medication like this. You may be wondering, 'What exactly will this do?', 'What should I be especially careful about?', 'Will this cause side effects?' Don't worry, we'll talk about all of this simply, clearly, as if we were talking to a friend.
What actually happens with this Ozanimod drug?
Simply put, Ozanimod is a drug that controls some of the activities of your body's immune system. It is most commonly available under the brand name ZEPOSIA.
- For someone with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) , this medication helps prevent relapses of symptoms caused by the disease.
- This medicine helps control the disease in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) , a condition that causes ulcers in the colon.
The most important thing is that this is not a cure for the disease, but it will help you control the disease and live a normal life.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting medication
Before starting Ozanimod, it's important for your doctor to have a complete picture of your health. So be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the conditions listed below.
| Your condition or reason | Description |
|---|---|
| Heart disease or high blood pressure | Any type of heart disease, heart rhythm disorders, high blood pressure, etc. |
| Liver diseases | Any previous or current liver disease. |
| Diabetes | If you are diabetic. |
| Immune system problems | Other diseases or conditions that weaken the immune system. |
| Current infections | Especially viral infections like chickenpox or herpes. |
| Sleep apnea | If you have this condition. |
| Stroke | If you have previously had a stroke or a similar temporary condition (Transient Ischemic Attack). |
| Pregnancy or planning to have it | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. |
| Vaccines | If you have recently received a vaccine or are scheduled to receive one in the future. |
| Allergies | If you have an allergy to Ozanimod or any other medicine, food, or dye. |
How should I use this medicine?
The method of using this is very simple. But the most important thing is to follow exactly what the doctor says.
- Swallow this tablet whole with water . Do not crush, crush, or chew the tablet.
- Try to take your medicine at the same time every day. That way, you won't forget and the medicine will work better.
- You can take it with or without food. However, if you feel upset, eat some food before taking the medicine.
- Most importantly: Do not stop taking your medication until your doctor tells you to.
What to do if you miss a dose of medicine?
This is something to be a little careful about.
- If you miss one or more doses within the first 14 days of starting the medication , do not try to make decisions on your own. Call your doctor right away. You may need to start a new course of medication.
- If you miss a dose after 14 days , skip that dose. Take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never double up (take two doses at once) to make up for a missed dose.
What if I accidentally take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken more medicine than you think, don't panic. But immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Other things that may interact with this medicine
Ozanimod is a drug that can interact with other medications and foods.
Do not take Ozanimod with these medications:
- Some medications for depression called MAOIs (e.g. Parnate, Nardil).
- Linezolid is an antibiotic.
Problems can also occur with these things:
- Some medications for high blood pressure and heart disease.
- Other medications for depression and anxiety.
- Live virus vaccines .
- Other medications that suppress immunity.
- Other special medications such as Gemfibrozil and Rifampin.
- Foods rich in tyramine .
This list is not complete. Therefore, it is very important to tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, and herbal remedies you are taking. Also, tell your doctor if you use alcohol or tobacco.
Things to be especially careful about when taking medication
- Avoid foods high in tyramine: This is very important. Aged, fermented, cured, smoked, and pickled foods are high in tyramine. Examples include aged cheeses, smoked fish, and some sauces. Taking these with Ozanimod can cause dangerously high blood pressure. Ask your doctor for more information about this.
- Protect yourself from infections: This medicine can slightly reduce your immunity. Therefore, if you experience symptoms such as fever, cold, cough, and body aches, tell your doctor immediately. Avoid going to places where sick people are as much as possible.
- Protect yourself from the sun: Your skin may be sensitive to sunlight while taking this medication. So if you are going to be in the sun, wear clothing that covers your body and use a good sunscreen.
- Avoid getting pregnant: This is very important! You should completely avoid getting pregnant while taking this medication and for 3 months after stopping the medication. It can cause serious harm to the unborn baby. Talk to your doctor about this for more information.
- Changes in vision: If you notice any changes in your vision, such as blurring, tell your doctor immediately.
- Stopping medication: If you stop taking your medication suddenly without your doctor's advice, your MS symptoms may worsen.
What side effects should you be aware of?
Like any medicine, Ozanimod can cause side effects. Some are serious, while others are common.
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergies | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Changes in heart rate | Difficulty breathing, chest pain, dizziness, slow or irregular heartbeat, fainting. |
| Symptoms of liver damage | Dark yellow/brown urine, yellowing of the eyes or skin, pain in the upper right side of the abdomen, extreme fatigue. |
| Signs of infection | Fever, chills, cough, sore throat. |
| Other serious symptoms | Severe headache with confusion, vision changes, seizures, and difficulty breathing. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Back pain, dizziness, sinus problems. | |
Take-Home Message
- Ozanimod is a special medication that should be used only under the doctor's instructions. Take it exactly as prescribed, at the time prescribed.
- Before starting the medication, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and all medications you are taking.
- Be very careful with foods high in tyramine (aged cheese, smoked meat/fish).
- Avoid getting pregnant completely while taking the pill and for 3 months after stopping. This is very important.
- If you experience serious side effects such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, or severe headache, seek medical advice immediately.
- Even if you feel better, do not stop taking the medication without your doctor's advice.
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