Best Practice for Education and Ongoing Evaluation of Patients on Gilenya (Fingolimod)

Background: Gilenya is a sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulator indicated for the treatment of patients with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis to reduce the frequency of clinical exacerbations and to delay the accumulation of physical disability.

Objectives: To develop a safe and effective protocol for initiation and maintenance of fingolimod.

Methods: Protocol developed that emphasizes Gilenya education, including risks and benefits.  Particular attention placed on face-to-face patient education; outlining patient responsibilities for Gilenya initiation and ongoing adherence.    

 Results: Over one hundred patients have participated in this process resulting in a significantly increased adherence, as it is related to ongoing safety monitoring.

Conclusions: Vigilant monitoring and adherence to safety protocol has resulted in better understanding and satisfaction for patients, as well as early recognition of potentially unfavorable drug effects.