Mayzent Side Effects, RRMS, and its Safe Dosing

Mayzent (by Novartis), the active substance of which is Siponimod, is an oral prescription medication approved for the treatment of relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) in adults, including clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting disease, and active secondary progressive disease. Common Mayzent side effects observed in clinical trials include headache, hypertension (high blood pressure), and liver function test abnormalities.

Mayzent symptoms and Multiple Sclerosis which is a common cause of neurological disabilities in adults and more often in women are explained later in this blog.

Understanding Multiple Sclerosis and RRMS:

An autoimmune disease like arthritis (which primarily affects joints), multiple sclerosis destroys the nerves coating, hence affecting the central nervous system. In multiple sclerosis, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the myelin sheath, which is the protective covering around nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. This damage disrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body, leading to muscle weakness, memory issues, coordination, bladder, bowel, vision, and numbness problems.

Multiple Sclerosis has 4 types and the most common type is Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS), commonly known as ‘’attacks’’ or ‘’exacerbations’’. The relapses or attacks are followed by recovery (may be partial or full). Taking medication does not essentially cure this disease altogether, but medication slows down the speed at which the disease is spreading in the body.

Mayzent Side Effects:

As per the FDA label of Mayzent, there are several side effects that should be kept in mind:

• Slow Heart Rate: In the beginning (especially after the first dose). It’s recommended to take an ECG (electrocardiogram) test before starting Mayzent.
• Increased Risk of Infections: To reduce the Multiple Sclerosis, which is an auto-immune (involving white blood cells as well) disease during which your body mistakenly attacks its own tissues and organs, Mayzent lowers the number of lymphocytes (white blood cells) in your blood. The lowering down of white blood cells by Mazent increases the risks of serious infections and this can be life-threatening (can cause death as well). However, this goes back to normal within 3 – 4 weeks.

If you experience the following during or after your treatment ends, immediately call your doctor:

• Fever
• Vomiting
• Chills
• Nausea
• Headache with fever, sensitivity to light, confusion, or neck stiffness
• Tiredness
• Body aches

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML): People with weakened immune system may experience Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). Caused by JC virus (JCV), this rare disease affects substance that protects nerve cells in brain causing brain infection (often fatal). PML can cause a wide range of neurological symptoms, including:

• Motor deficits (weakness, clumsiness)
• Cognitive impairment (difficulty with thinking, memory, and language)
• Visual problems
• Behavioral changes
• Limb and gait ataxia
• Seizures

Although rare, but some people may also experience epilepsy.

Labeled and Off-Label Uses:

Mayzent is officially approved for treating relapsing forms of MS, as specified earlier. There is limited information available regarding off-label uses of siponimod. Healthcare providers should rely on clinical judgment and current guidelines when considering any off-label applications.

Adverse Reactions and Pharmacogenomics:

Individuals with certain genetic variations, particularly in the CYP2C9 gene, may experience different responses to siponimod. The FDA recommends CYP2C9 genotype testing before starting treatment to determine the appropriate dosage and identify patients who may be at increased risk for adverse drug reactions.

Book a non-invasive and at-home pharmacogenomic test by CLIA accredited RPh LAB.

Tailored Dosing:

Pharmacogenomic testing, specifically for CYP2C9 variants, is essential in tailoring Siponimod safe dosing. Patients with certain CYP2C9 genotypes may require dose adjustments or may not be suitable candidates for siponimod therapy. This personalized approach helps optimize treatment efficacy while minimizing potential risks.

An RPh LAB’s report shall guide safe dosing of Mayzent.

 

Giving you insights into your genetic makeup, our reports show how you may respond to 250+ medications.

Conclusion:

Mayzent (by Novartis) with active substance Siponimod is a drug approved to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) in adults. Since this is an auto immune disease, the drug works by lowering down the number of lymphocytes (white blood cells) in your blood. Doctors administering Mayzent should first check your recent blood test of white blood cells. Moreover, as this slows down your heartbeat usually in the beginning of the treatment, an ECG (electrocardiogram) test is also recommended before initiating Siponimod.