Do you or someone you know have Multiple Sclerosis (MS)? If so, your doctor may have prescribed you a pill called Siponimod. The name may sound a bit unfamiliar to you. But it is a very important drug for controlling MS. So today, let's talk about this drug, what it does, how to use it, and what precautions you need to take. Everything is simple and easy to understand.
What exactly is this medicine called Siponimod?
Simply put, Siponimod is a drug used to treat multiple sclerosis, or MS, as we all know it. One of its well-known names on the market is MAYZENT.
Now let's see what happens to the body. In MS, our own immune system becomes overactive and attacks our own nervous system. It's like our own army attacking our own country. So what this drug, siponimod, does is to control the speed of that overactive immune system. When it does that, it reduces the damage to the nerves, delays the worsening of symptoms, and reduces the number of flare-ups.
That means, this medicine does not completely cure MS, but it does control the disease and greatly help you live a normal life.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting medication
Before starting this medicine, the doctor should have a complete picture of your health condition. Because this medicine may not be compatible with some medical conditions. Therefore, if you have any of the following, be sure to tell the doctor. Don't hide it as something minor.
| Illness or condition | What you need to inform |
|---|---|
| Heart disease | If you have had a heart attack, irregular heartbeat, or other heart disease. |
| High blood pressure | If you have high blood pressure or are taking medication for it. |
| Liver diseases | If you have had or currently have a liver disease such as jaundice. |
| Diabetes | If you are diabetic. |
| Cancer | If you have had cancer before or are currently undergoing treatment. |
| Eye diseases | If you have cataracts, glaucoma, or any other vision problem. |
| Infections | If you currently have an infection such as a cold or flu, or if you have previously had diseases such as chickenpox or herpes. |
| Lung diseases | If you have asthma or other breathing difficulties. |
| Vaccines | If you are scheduled to receive a vaccine in the future or have recently received a vaccine. |
| Pregnancy | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding, this is very important . |
| Allergies | If you have an allergy to siponimod or any other medicine or food. |
How should I use this medicine?
Okay, now let's see how to use the medicine exactly. It's very simple.
- Take the pill with a glass of water. Take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Try to take it at the same time every day. This will help keep the medicine's effectiveness in the body at the same level.
- You can take it before or after a meal. However, some people may experience stomach discomfort if taken without food. If this happens, take it with food.
- Most importantly: Keep taking this medicine until your doctor tells you to stop. Don't stop just because you think your symptoms have subsided.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
It is very important not to miss a single dose of this medication. However, if you forget to take it, do not panic and call your doctor as soon as you remember. He or she will tell you what to do next.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much medicine, don't delay. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital. Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital. Treat this as an emergency.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
Siponimod is a medication that can interact with some other medications. Therefore, it is essential to tell your doctor about any medications, vitamins, and even traditional medicines you are taking.
| Do not take Siponimod with this medicine. | |
|---|---|
| Dronedarone | Fingolimod |
| Pimozide | Saquinavir |
| Thioridazine | |
| Problems can occur with this medication - inform your doctor. | |
| Alemtuzumab | Some antiviral medications for HIV or Hepatitis |
| Some medications for blood pressure and heart disease | Some medications for fungal infections (e.g. Ketoconazole) |
| Some medications for seizures (e.g. Carbamazepine, Phenytoin) | Digoxin |
| Live virus vaccines | Other medications that suppress immunity |
This list is not comprehensive, so it's safest to tell your doctor about all the medications you take.
Important things to consider when taking medication
There are a few things you should pay attention to when taking this medication. Paying attention to these is very important for your safety.
Serious infections that can affect the brain
This is very rare, but it's important to know. Some patients may develop a serious brain infection from this medication. So, if you experience any problems with your vision, thinking, speaking, or walking or standing , tell your doctor right away.
Take care of your eyesight.
This medicine may cause vision problems. Your doctor may check your eyes before you start taking this medicine and while you are taking it. If you notice any changes in your vision, such as blurred vision, tell your doctor right away.
Risk of infection
Because this medicine suppresses the immune system, you may be slightly more susceptible to infections. Therefore, if you develop symptoms such as fever, chills, sore throat, or cough , do not take the medicine on your own and call your doctor for advice. Try to stay away from people who are sick.
Pregnancy and birth control (very important!)
This medicine is not suitable if you are trying to get pregnant or are currently pregnant. You should avoid getting pregnant while taking this medicine and for 10 days after stopping the medicine. This medicine can cause serious birth defects in the unborn baby. Therefore, it is essential to use a reliable form of birth control during this time. Talk to your doctor about the best method for you.
Be careful of the sun.
Your skin may become sensitive to the sun while taking this medicine. Therefore, limit your exposure to strong sunlight as much as possible. If you do go out in the sun, wear clothing that covers your body well and use a good sunscreen.
Side effects that may occur due to medication
Like any medicine, siponimod can cause side effects. Not everyone gets them, but it's important to be aware of them.
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergies | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue. |
| Heart rate changes | Feeling like your heart is beating fast or irregularly, dizziness, chest pain, difficulty breathing. |
| Symptoms of liver damage | Pain in the upper right side of the stomach, loss of appetite, yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine. |
| Symptoms of Meningitis | Fever, neck pain and stiffness, sensitivity to light, severe headache, nausea. |
| PRES syndrome | Sudden severe headache, confusion, vision changes, seizures. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Headache | Dizziness |
| Nausea | Swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet |
Take-Home Message
- Siponimod is an important drug for the management of multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of this medicine without your doctor's advice.
- Tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking and any medical conditions you have.
- If you develop signs of infection such as fever, cough, changes in vision, or unusual symptoms while taking the medication, notify your doctor immediately.
- This medicine is not suitable for use by pregnant women, those trying to become pregnant, or those breastfeeding. It is essential to use a reliable form of birth control while taking the medicine and for 10 days after stopping.
- This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult your doctor for any medical advice.
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