September 21, 2010, the first oral medication for relapsing MS was approved by the FDA. The drug is Fingolimod (Gilenya®) made by Novartis.

The new drug, Gilenya®, is only approved for relapsing subtypes of MS, not progressive MS subtypes without clinical relapses. At present time, we are reserving the use of this medication for patients that have ongoing disease activity, intolerable side effects or logistical issues with the previously-available MS therapies. This is because this drug appears to carry more risks than any of the beta-interferons (Avonex®, Betaseron®, Rebif® and Extavia®) or glatiramer acetate (Copaxone®). There are a number of baseline tests and evaluations that must be done before starting this medication. If you have relapsing MS, and feel that you are a candidate for the new drug or wish to discuss it as a possible medication for you, then you should make an appointment with your neurologist here.

If you have Primary Progressive MS, you might be eligible for a clinical trial we are doing using this drug and you should check the link related to our current clinical trials.