Ozanimod: Uses, indications and cautions when using

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Ozanimod is used to reduce the frequency of relapses of multiple sclerosis (MS) and prevent disability in people with this disease. The use of Ozanimod drug needs to strictly follow the indications and instructions for taking the drug to avoid the risk of side effects.

1. What are the effects of Ozanimod?

Ozanimod is commonly used to treat multiple sclerosis (MS). Ozanimod isn't a complete treatment for MS, but it is thought to stop the immune system's lymphocytes from attacking nerves in the brain and spinal cord. Mechanism of action of the drug Ozanimod can reduce the number of relapses and limit the risk of disability in patients with multiple sclerosis.

2. Dosage and usage

Before prescribing Ozanimod to patients, the doctor will do medical tests such as complete blood count, liver function tests, blood pressure, electrocardiogram, pulse, eye exam... to predict prevent side effects. Ozanimod is usually taken by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor. Dosage is usually once a day. To reduce the risk of side effects, your doctor may prescribe a low dose of Ozanimod and gradually increase the dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully, do not increase your dose or take your medicine more often than directed by your doctor or on the label; Keep taking Ozanimod as long as and exactly as prescribed to get the most benefit from it. To remember your dosing schedule, take your pills at the same times every day. Dosage will be considered based on the individual patient's medical condition and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take this medicine more often than prescribed to avoid the risk of unwanted side effects. Do not stop taking Ozanimod on your own without consulting your doctor. Your multiple sclerosis may get worse when you stop this medicine. Your doctor may recommend that you avoid certain foods and drinks that are high in Tyramine, as they can increase blood pressure while you are taking Ozanimod. Products high in Tyramine include: aged cheeses, dried meats, sausages (e.g. salami, liver sausage), processed fish (e.g. pickled herring), products products with large amounts of yeast (such as gravy, bread sourdough, pickles, kimchi...), most soy products (such as soy sauce, tofu), red wine, etc. If your condition does not improve or worsens, notify your doctor immediately;

3. Undesirable effects

Like many other drugs, Ozanimod can also bring some side effects such as: Back pain, dizziness and lightheadedness. When you first take Ozanimod, you may experience temporary bradycardia. To reduce your risk, your doctor may gradually increase your dose over the first 8 days of treatment. Ozanimod may also increase your blood pressure. Check your blood pressure regularly and let your doctor know if the results are high. In rare cases this medicine can cause serious (possibly fatal) liver disease. Get medical help right away if you notice any signs of liver damage, for example: nausea, vomiting that won't stop, loss of appetite, stomach pain, stomach pain, yellow eyes, jaundice, dark urine. Ozanimod may weaken your immune system, increasing your risk of infection during treatment and 3 months after stopping it. You are even more susceptible to serious infections such as bronchitis, herpes s... Tell your doctor right away if you notice any signs of infection such as: sore throat, persistent cough. persistent, difficulty breathing, fever, chills, cold or flu symptoms, sores or blisters. Do not take Ozanimod if you already have an infection. Ozanimod may increase your risk of rare but very serious, potentially fatal brain infections that are: rare brain infections (progressive multifocal encephalopathy - PML). Symptoms of PML can resemble an episode of multiple sclerosis but are worse. Get medical help right away if you notice any unusual signs, such as clumsiness, problems with strength, balance, speech, vision or thinking.

4. Be careful when using Ozanimod

Before taking Ozanimod, note the following:
If you are allergic to the ingredients of the drug or have any other condition, tell your doctor immediately; Share with your doctor your personal medical history, especially of: breathing problems (such as asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, sleep apnea), current infections (such as including hepatitis and tuberculosis), diabetes, certain eye problems (macular edema, uveitis), heart problems (such as slow, irregular heartbeat, heart failure, chest pain) , long QT syndrome ), high blood pressure, liver problems, smoking, stroke. Ozanimod may make you more susceptible to infections or may worsen any existing infections. Avoid contact with people who have infections that can be spread to others (such as chickenpox, measles, flu) and people who have recently received a live vaccine. Get all necessary immunizations before you start taking this medicine. Do not get vaccinated without your doctor's consent while you are taking Ozanimod and for 3 months after your last dose. Ozanimod can cause harm to an unborn baby, so pregnancy is not recommended while using this medicine. Patients should practice reliable contraception while using the drug and for 3 months after stopping treatment. It is not known whether Ozanimod passes into breast milk. Women who are breast-feeding should talk to their doctor before taking this medicine.

5. Drug interactions

Some drugs that can interact with Ozanimod are: other drugs that weaken the immune system, increase the risk of infection (such as Natalizumab, Alemtuzumab, Rituximab). Do not use MAO inhibitors (such as Linezolid, Isocarboxazid, Moclobemide, Procarbazine, Phenelzine, Safinamide, Rasagiline, Selegiline, Tranylcypromine ...) while using Ozanimod because it can cause serious drug interactions, even causing dead. Do not take MAO inhibitors 2 weeks before and after treatment with Ozanimod .

6. Some notes when using Ozanimod

Overdose: If Ozanimod overdose and symptoms such as fainting or difficulty breathing, the patient should be taken to the emergency room immediately. In addition, patients are encouraged to undergo regular physical examination, including medical tests such as: complete blood count, blood pressure, pulse, electrocardiogram, MRI, eye exam, liver function test , check breathing...before and during medication to prevent side effects. Missed dose: Adhering to the treatment schedule is very important for the effectiveness of the medication. Ask your doctor first about what to do if you miss a dose of Ozanimod. If you miss a dose during the first 14 days of treatment, you may have to start over with a lower dose and slowly increase the dose. If you miss a dose after the first 14 days of treatment, skip the missed dose and take it on your regular schedule. Don't try to double your dose to catch up. Storage: Store Ozanimod at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Avoid storing this medicine in the bathroom. Keep medication out of reach of small children and range of pets.

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Reference source: Webmd