Fingolimod
Other names: FTY720
In development for: Relapsing/remitting MS
Status: Phase III
Last updated: April 2008
How does it work?
Fingolimod works by binding to the surface of immune cells and preventing them from attacking cells in the central nervous system.
How is it given?
Fingolimod is taken orally as tablets.
Clinical studies
Fingolimod is an experimental disease modifying drug for MS that is still undergoing trials.
A six month, phase II controlled clinical trial of fingolimod involving 255 people with relapsing/remitting MS found inflammation measured on MRI scans was significantly reduced in treatment groups when compared to people on placebo. More people in the treatment group stayed relapse-free.
An 18 month extension of the original study, in which those previously taking a placebo started treatment, confirmed these results, with up to 77% of those taking fingolimod remaining free of relapses over two years. A larger, phase III trial is underway.
Fingolimod is being developed by Novartis Pharmaceuticals.
Side effects and contraindications
Although the trials so far have shown fingolimod to be well tolerated, the side effects that have occurred include upper respiratory tract infections, shortness of breath, diarrhoea and nausea.
References
Kappos L, et al.
Oral fingolimod (FTY720) for relapsing multiple sclerosis
New England Journal of Medicine 2006;355(11):1124-1140.
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