Mayzent 2mg Tablets
Overview
What is this medicine?
How to Use This Medicine
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. You can take this medication with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole - do not chew, break, or crush it. Continue taking this medication as directed by your doctor or healthcare provider, even if you start feeling well.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store unopened containers in the refrigerator or at room temperature, but do not freeze. Once opened, keep the container at room temperature in a dry place, away from the bathroom. If stored at room temperature, discard any unused portion after 3 months. Note that once the medication has been stored at room temperature, it should not be returned to the refrigerator.
Missing a Dose
When you first start taking this medication, your dose will be gradually increased. If you miss a dose during this initial period, contact your doctor for guidance. If you miss a dose after you've reached your regular dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then, return to your usual schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses. If you miss four doses, consult your doctor for further instructions.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Take Mayzent exactly as prescribed, especially during the initial dose titration period.
- Do not stop taking Mayzent suddenly without talking to your doctor, as this can lead to a worsening of your MS.
- Report any signs of infection (fever, chills, flu-like symptoms) to your doctor immediately.
- Be aware of symptoms of macular edema (blurred vision, blind spots) and report them to your doctor.
- Monitor your blood pressure regularly as instructed by your doctor.
- Discuss vaccination plans with your doctor before starting Mayzent, as live vaccines should be avoided.
- Use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 10 days after the last dose if you are a woman of childbearing potential.
- Protect your skin from the sun and undergo regular skin cancer screenings.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Condition-Specific Dosing:
Pediatric Dosing
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Hepatic Impairment:
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Distribution:
Elimination:
Pharmacodynamics
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Although rare, this medication can cause severe and potentially life-threatening side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical help right away:
Allergic Reaction: Rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever, wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Infection: Fever, chills, severe sore throat, ear or sinus pain, cough, increased or changed sputum production, painful urination, mouth sores, or a wound that won't heal.
Meningitis: Headache with fever, stiff neck, upset stomach, confusion, or sensitivity to light.
Shingles: Pain, itching, or tingling, fever, muscle aches, or a rash with or without blisters.
Liver Problems: Dark urine, fatigue, decreased appetite, upset stomach or stomach pain, light-colored stools, vomiting, or yellow skin or eyes.
Skin Cancer: New wart, lump, or skin growth; a sore that bleeds or doesn't heal; a shiny, white, pink, red, or skin-colored bump that bleeds or doesn't heal; or a change in the color or size of a mole.
High Blood Pressure: Severe headache or dizziness, fainting, or changes in vision.
Respiratory Problems: Shortness of breath or worsening breathing difficulties.
Swelling: Swelling in the arms or legs.
Heart Problems: Slow or abnormal heartbeat, especially after the first dose. People with certain heart conditions will require close monitoring after the first dose. If you experience confusion, dizziness, slow or abnormal heartbeat, fatigue, or chest pain, contact your doctor immediately.
Additional Serious Side Effects:
Macular Edema: An eye problem that can lead to permanent vision loss over time, especially in people with diabetes or a history of uveitis. If you experience sensitivity to light, abnormal colors, blurriness, shadows, or a blind spot in your vision, contact your doctor right away.
Blood Vessel Problems: Rarely, this medication can cause strokes, blood clots in the lungs, or heart attacks, which can be fatal. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience chest, arm, back, neck, or jaw pain or pressure; coughing up blood; numbness or weakness on one side of your body; trouble speaking or thinking; changes in balance or vision; shortness of breath; or swelling, warmth, or pain in the leg or arm.
Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES): A rare and potentially life-threatening brain problem. If you experience confusion, decreased alertness, changes in vision, loss of vision, seizures, or a severe headache, contact your doctor right away.
Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML): A rare and potentially disabling or fatal brain problem that can occur with long-term use of this medication. If you experience confusion, memory problems, depression, changes in behavior, weakness on one side of the body, trouble speaking or thinking, changes in balance or vision, contact your doctor right away.
Common Side Effects:
Dizziness or headache
Upset stomach
Diarrhea
Pain in arms or legs
If you experience any of these side effects or any other symptoms that concern you, contact your doctor or seek medical attention. Not all side effects are listed here. If you have questions about side effects, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- New or worsening vision problems (blurred vision, blind spots, changes in color vision)
- Signs of infection (fever, chills, body aches, sore throat, unusual fatigue)
- New or worsening neurological symptoms (weakness, numbness, difficulty walking, changes in thinking or memory, speech problems, seizures) - these could be signs of PML or rebound MS activity
- Severe headache, confusion, seizures, or visual disturbances (signs of PRES)
- Unexplained nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, yellowing of skin or eyes (signs of liver problems)
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, slow heart rate, or fainting (signs of heart problems)
- New or worsening high blood pressure
- Skin lesions or changes (increased risk of skin cancer)
Before Using This Medicine
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following conditions to ensure safe treatment:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances. Describe the allergic reaction and its symptoms.
If you have been tested for the CYP2C93/3 gene type, as this may affect your treatment. If you are unsure about your gene type, consult your doctor.
A history of certain heart conditions, including:
+ Abnormal heart rhythms (heart block, sick sinus syndrome, slow heartbeat, or long QT interval on an electrocardiogram [ECG])
+ Chest pain (angina)
+ Heart attack
+ Heart failure
+ Brain blood vessel disease (such as transient ischemic attack [TIA] or stroke)
+ High blood pressure
+ Sleep apnea
Current or recent infections
Receipt of the varicella (chickenpox) vaccine within the past month
Recent administration of a live vaccine
Use of light therapy; consult your doctor to discuss potential interactions
Previous treatment with alemtuzumab, beta interferon, or glatiramer
Concurrent use of certain medications, including:
+ Carbamazepine
+ Efavirenz
+ Fluconazole
+ Modafinil
+ Rifampin
Use of medications that can cause a slow heartbeat, prolonged QT interval, or immune system suppression. There are many medications with these effects; consult your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure.
To ensure your safety, it is crucial to disclose all your medications, including:
Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications
Natural products
* Vitamins
As well as any health problems you have. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without consulting your doctor. This list is not exhaustive, and your doctor and pharmacist need to be aware of all your medications and health conditions to determine the safety of this treatment for you.
Precautions & Cautions
Monitor your blood pressure as directed by your doctor, as this medication can cause high blood pressure. In some cases, your doctor may order an MRI scan before starting this medication.
If you have not had chickenpox or received the chickenpox vaccine, discuss this with your doctor. While taking this medication and for 3 to 4 weeks after your last dose, you may be more susceptible to infections, some of which can be severe or life-threatening. To minimize this risk, practice good hygiene by washing your hands frequently and avoid close contact with people who have infections, colds, or flu.
Before receiving any vaccinations while taking this medication and for at least 4 weeks after stopping it, consult with your doctor. The use of this medication may increase the risk of infection or reduce the effectiveness of the vaccine.
If you stop taking this medication, your multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms may return and could be more severe than before or during treatment. If you experience worsening MS symptoms after stopping this medication, contact your doctor immediately. Do not discontinue this medication without consulting the doctor who prescribed it for you.
There is an increased risk of skin cancer associated with this type of medication. To reduce this risk, limit your exposure to sunlight, sunlamps, and tanning beds. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF and wear protective clothing when spending time outdoors.
A rare type of testicular cancer has been reported in patients taking this medication. If you have concerns, discuss them with your doctor.
This medication may harm an unborn baby if taken during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, use effective birth control while taking this medication and for 10 days after your last dose. If you become pregnant, notify your doctor immediately.
If you are breastfeeding, consult with your doctor to discuss any potential risks to your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
- AV block
- QT prolongation
- Transient hypertension
What to Do:
There is no specific antidote. Management is supportive. Monitor heart rate and rhythm, blood pressure, and lymphocyte counts. Consult a poison control center (e.g., 1-800-222-1222) or seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Drug Interactions
Contraindicated Interactions
- Strong CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, St. John's Wort)
- CYP2C9 *3/*3 genotype
- Moderate to severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh B or C)
- Patients who have experienced MI, unstable angina, stroke, TIA, decompensated heart failure requiring hospitalization, or Class III/IV heart failure in the last 6 months
- Patients with Mobitz Type II second-degree AV block, third-degree AV block, or sick sinus syndrome (unless patient has a functioning pacemaker)
- Patients with severe untreated sleep apnea
- Concomitant use of strong CYP2C9 inhibitors (e.g., fluconazole) in patients with CYP2C9 *1/*1, *1/*2, or *2/*2 genotype
Major Interactions
- Class IA (e.g., quinidine, procainamide) and Class III (e.g., amiodarone, sotalol) antiarrhythmic drugs (due to risk of bradycardia and QT prolongation)
- Drugs that prolong the QT interval (e.g., antipsychotics, tricyclic antidepressants, macrolide antibiotics, fluoroquinolones) in patients with risk factors for QT prolongation
- Beta-blockers and other heart rate lowering drugs (e.g., calcium channel blockers like diltiazem, verapamil; ivabradine) - use with caution, monitor heart rate
- Live attenuated vaccines (e.g., MMR, varicella, yellow fever) - avoid during and for 4 weeks after treatment due to increased risk of infection
- Immunosuppressants (e.g., methotrexate, azathioprine, corticosteroids) - increased risk of infection and additive immunosuppressive effects
- Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin, ritonavir) when co-administered with moderate CYP2C9 inhibitors (e.g., amiodarone, fluconazole) in patients with CYP2C9 *1/*1, *1/*2, or *2/*2 genotype
Moderate Interactions
- Moderate CYP2C9 inhibitors (e.g., amiodarone, fluconazole) - may increase siponimod exposure, especially in certain genotypes. Consider dose reduction or alternative.
- Moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., erythromycin, diltiazem, verapamil) - may increase siponimod exposure.
- CYP2C9 inducers (e.g., modafinil, bosentan) - may decrease siponimod exposure.
Minor Interactions
- Not specifically listed as minor interactions with clinical significance requiring specific action beyond general caution.
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Rationale: To determine appropriate starting dose and maximum dose, and to identify patients for whom siponimod is contraindicated.
Timing: Prior to initiation of treatment
Rationale: To establish baseline lymphocyte count and monitor for lymphopenia.
Timing: Within 6 months prior to initiation
Rationale: To assess for pre-existing liver disease and establish baseline for monitoring drug-induced liver injury.
Timing: Within 6 months prior to initiation
Rationale: To assess for pre-existing cardiac abnormalities (e.g., bradycardia, AV block, QT prolongation) and guide first-dose observation.
Timing: Prior to initiation
Rationale: To establish baseline and screen for pre-existing macular edema, especially in patients with a history of uveitis or diabetes.
Timing: Prior to initiation
Rationale: To determine immune status to VZV. Vaccination is recommended for VZV-seronegative patients prior to treatment.
Timing: Prior to initiation
Rationale: To establish baseline and monitor for hypertension.
Timing: Prior to initiation
Routine Monitoring
Frequency: Periodically (e.g., every 3-6 months or as clinically indicated)
Target: Lymphocyte count >200 cells/mm³
Action Threshold: If lymphocyte count <200 cells/mm³, consider dose interruption or discontinuation. If <500 cells/mm³ and patient has serious infection, consider interruption.
Frequency: Periodically (e.g., every 3-6 months or as clinically indicated)
Target: Within normal limits or stable
Action Threshold: If ALT/AST >3-5x ULN, consider interruption or discontinuation. If >5x ULN, discontinue.
Frequency: Regularly (e.g., at each clinic visit)
Target: Within normal limits
Action Threshold: If sustained hypertension develops, manage appropriately.
Frequency: At 3-4 months after initiation, and then as clinically indicated (e.g., if visual changes occur). Annually for patients with diabetes or history of uveitis.
Target: No macular edema
Action Threshold: If macular edema occurs, discontinue treatment until resolution.
Frequency: Regularly (e.g., annually)
Target: No suspicious lesions
Action Threshold: If suspicious skin lesions appear, refer for evaluation due to increased risk of skin malignancies.
Symptom Monitoring
- Signs of infection (fever, chills, sore throat, unusual fatigue)
- Symptoms of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) (new or worsening neurological symptoms, cognitive or behavioral changes)
- Symptoms of macular edema (blurred vision, shadowed vision, central vision loss)
- Symptoms of bradycardia or AV block (dizziness, lightheadedness, palpitations, syncope)
- Symptoms of liver injury (unexplained nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fatigue, anorexia, dark urine, jaundice)
- Symptoms of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) (sudden severe headache, altered mental status, visual disturbances, seizures)
- New or worsening hypertension
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Mayzent is contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential for fetal harm based on animal studies. Women of childbearing potential must use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 10 days after the last dose.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
Lactation
Siponimod is excreted in breast milk in animals. Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in the breastfed infant, breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with Mayzent and for 10 days after the last dose.
Pediatric Use
Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients (under 18 years of age) have not been established. Use is not recommended.
Geriatric Use
Clinical studies did not include sufficient numbers of patients aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger patients. Use with caution in elderly patients due to potential for increased susceptibility to adverse effects, particularly cardiac effects and infections. No specific dose adjustment is recommended based on age alone, but consider overall health status and comorbidities.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Always confirm CYP2C9 genotype before initiating siponimod to determine the correct starting and maintenance dose, and to identify patients for whom it is contraindicated (CYP2C9 *3/*3).
- The initial 5-day titration is crucial to mitigate first-dose cardiac effects (bradycardia, AV block). First-dose observation (FDO) for at least 6 hours is required for patients with certain pre-existing cardiac conditions or those at higher risk.
- Patients should be vaccinated against VZV if seronegative prior to starting siponimod, as there is an increased risk of herpes zoster infection.
- Monitor for signs and symptoms of infection, especially serious infections, as siponimod causes a dose-dependent reduction in peripheral lymphocyte count.
- Be vigilant for symptoms of Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML), a rare but serious brain infection. Any new or worsening neurological symptoms should prompt immediate investigation.
- Macular edema is a known side effect, especially in patients with diabetes or a history of uveitis. Regular ophthalmologic exams are important.
- Rebound disease activity, which can be severe and disabling, has been reported rarely after discontinuation of S1P modulators. Patients should not stop treatment without consulting their physician.
- Siponimod can cause dose-dependent increases in blood pressure; monitor regularly.
- Increased risk of skin malignancies (basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma) has been observed with S1P modulators; advise patients on sun protection and regular skin checks.
Alternative Therapies
- Other S1P receptor modulators: Fingolimod (Gilenya), Ozanimod (Zeposia), Ponesimod (Ponvory)
- Injectable DMTs: Interferon beta (e.g., Avonex, Betaseron, Rebif), Glatiramer acetate (e.g., Copaxone, Glatopa)
- Oral DMTs: Dimethyl fumarate (Tecfidera), Diroximel fumarate (Vumerity), Teriflunomide (Aubagio), Cladribine (Mavenclad)
- Infusion DMTs: Natalizumab (Tysabri), Ocrelizumab (Ocrevus), Alemtuzumab (Lemtrada)