New MS Agent Reduces Relapse Rate, Disability

All seven reported cases of macular edema occurred in the group that took 1.25 mg of fingolimod, and all cases resolved after treatment was discontinued.

The overall incidence of infections was similar (69%-72%) for all three groups, and included herpesvirus infections, lower respiratory tract infections, and urinary tract infections.

The results support safety data from previous studies and suggest that most patients with MS tolerate oral fingolimod, the researchers said.

Also consistent with previous studies, “the overall safety profile of fingolimod 0.5 mg appears to be more favorable than that of the 1.25-mg dose,” they added.