Filosir (Fingolimod Hydrochloride)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Filosir Used For?
Filosir is a medication used to manage relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), a condition that affects the central nervous system.
Primary Uses
Filosir is primarily used to treat adults, children, and adolescents aged 10 and above with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis.
How It Works
Filosir alters the immune system's response, reducing inflammation and nerve damage associated with MS, thereby slowing the progression of physical disability and decreasing relapse frequency.
Good to know: Filosir is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Filosir
Filosir should be taken as directed by your healthcare provider, ideally at the same time each day for optimal effect.
Dosage Instructions
Adults typically take one 0.5 mg capsule daily. For children and adolescents, the dosage is based on body weight: those weighing 40 kg or less take one 0.25 mg capsule daily, while those over 40 kg take one 0.5 mg capsule daily.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, skip it and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Important: Never take a double dose of Filosir.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- flu-like symptoms
- headache
- diarrhea
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- coughing with phlegm
- chest pain
- shingles/herpes zoster
- slow or irregular heartbeat
- blurred vision
- skin nodules
Impulse Control Issues
There is a risk of impulse control issues, including compulsive behaviors, while taking Filosir.
Important Warnings
There are several important considerations and warnings associated with Filosir.
Who Should Not Take Filosir
Do not use Filosir if you have had an allergic reaction to fingolimod or any of its ingredients, have had a heart attack, unstable angina, stroke, or certain heart conditions in the past six months.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any history of heart problems, irregular heartbeat, severe breathing difficulties, liver issues, or infections with your doctor before starting Filosir.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Avoid becoming pregnant while taking Filosir and for two months after stopping, as it may harm an unborn baby. Do not breastfeed while on this medication.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Use of Filosir in elderly patients, particularly those with dementia, should be approached with caution due to limited experience.
Drug Interactions
Filosir may interact with other medications, affecting its efficacy.
Grapefruit interaction: Consult your doctor about grapefruit consumption while taking Filosir.
- medications for irregular heartbeat (e.g., quinidine, amiodarone)
- beta-blockers (e.g., atenolol)
- calcium channel blockers (e.g., verapamil)
- medications that suppress the immune system (e.g., corticosteroids)
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and operating vehicles or machinery while on Filosir.
Alcohol
Inform your doctor if you consume alcohol, as it may interact with Filosir.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful when driving or using machinery until you know how Filosir affects you, as it may cause dizziness.
Storage
Store Filosir in its original container in a cool, dry place below 30°C for the 0.5 mg capsule or below 25°C for the 0.25 mg capsule, away from moisture and heat.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose of Filosir, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include swelling in hands or feet, tingling, muscle pain, or fever.
Frequently Asked Questions
Filosir may take some time to show its effects, as it works by modifying the immune system's response.
Filosir can be taken with or without food.
No, Filosir is not considered addictive.
Stopping Filosir suddenly may cause a return or worsening of MS symptoms.
You should inform your doctor if you consume alcohol, as it may interact with Filosir.
Weight gain is not specifically mentioned as a side effect of Filosir.
Use of Filosir in elderly patients should be approached with caution due to limited experience.
If you miss a dose, skip it and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not double the dose.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.