Tips
Gilenya can be taken with or without food, but it is best to take it at the same time every day. If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If your next dose is approaching, skip it; do not double your dose. If you miss a dose during the first two weeks of taking Gilenya, contact your doctor because your heart rate may need to be monitored again.
Gilenya can cause your heart rate to slow, and this is more likely to occur with the first dose of Gilenya or if you miss a dose during the first two weeks of treatment and then restart Gilenya.
Because Gilenya suppresses your immune system, you are more susceptible to infections while taking it. While receiving treatment with Gilenya and for two months after stopping it, some vaccinations may need to be avoided. Be cautious to stay away from sick people and take precautions to keep yourself safe. If you experience any infection-related symptoms, such as fever, pain, swelling, redness, or a discharge, see your doctor right away.
Although Gilenya is expensive, most people pay nothing because it is covered by 96 to 99% of people with commercial or private health insurance or who are eligible for Medicare or Medicaid. The GILENYA Medical Co-Pay Support Program also provides co-pay assistance. Pre-testing and initial observations may also be covered. The Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation, Inc. (NPAF) is dedicated to providing access to Novartis medications to those in financial need or without prescription coverage. Call 1 800-445-3692 to reach the Gilenya Go Program.
Do not stop taking Gilenya without first consulting your doctor. In 2018, the FDA issued a warning stating that stopping Gilenya could cause some people's MS to worsen significantly. This deterioration is uncommon, but it has the potential to result in permanent disability. The increase in disability generally occurred within 12 weeks of stopping Gilenya, but it was reported up to 24 weeks later. Stopping may be due to intolerable adverse drug reactions, a planned or unplanned pregnancy, or because the medicine is no longer effective.
Gilenya can increase your risk of macular edema, so you should have an eye exam before starting treatment, 3 to 4 months after starting treatment, and then on a regular basis after that.
If you experience any unusual or concerning side effects, including stomach pain, dizziness, heart palpitations, a rash, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, fever, or vision issues, consult your doctor right away. A serious viral infection called progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), whose symptoms include progressive weakness on one side of the body, clumsiness in the limbs, vision problems, changes in thinking, memory, and orientation that cause confusion, and personality changes, can also increase your risk of developing while taking Gilenya. If you experience any of these symptoms, consult a doctor right away.
Gilenya is not safe to use during pregnancy and should not be used while breastfeeding. If you are a woman of childbearing age, you should get a pregnancy test before starting Gilenya and use reliable contraception while taking it. If you become pregnant while taking Gilenya or within two months of stopping it, notify your doctor immediately.
Gilenya can increase your chances of getting skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinomas and melanomas. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen with a high sun protection factor to protect your skin from the sun. Inform your doctor if you notice any changes in the appearance of your skin, such as changes in a mole or persistent sores.
Gilenya capsules should be stored at room temperature 20ºC to 25ºC (68ºF-77ºF) and kept dry.
