Zeposia (Ozanimod)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Zeposia Used For?
Zeposia is a medication that helps manage certain inflammatory conditions.
Primary Uses
Zeposia is used to treat adults with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis and moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis.
How It Works
It modulates the movement of white blood cells, preventing them from causing inflammation in the central nervous system and intestinal lining.
Good to know: Zeposia is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Zeposia
Follow your doctor's instructions for taking Zeposia to ensure effective treatment.
Dosage Instructions
Begin with a 7-day initiation pack, gradually increasing the dose. On Day 8, take one 920 microgram capsule daily. If you have liver issues, your doctor may adjust your dose.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose within the first 14 days, contact your doctor to restart the initiation pack. After 14 days, take the missed dose as soon as possible unless it's close to your next dose.
Important: Never double dose to make up for a missed dose.
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:
- Viral infections of the nose, mouth, throat, or voice box
- Low blood levels of lymphocytes
- Sore throat
- Lung infection
- Cold sores
- Headache
- Swelling of arms, hands, feet, ankles, or legs
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Low heart rate
- Allergic reactions
- Changes in blood pressure
- Serious infections (e.g., urinary, shingles)
- New or worsening breathing problems
- Significant changes in vision
- Increased liver enzyme levels or jaundice
Impulse Control Issues
Monitor for any unusual changes in behavior or impulse control while on Zeposia.
Important Warnings
Certain precautions must be taken before and during treatment with Zeposia.
Who Should Not Take Zeposia
Do not use Zeposia if you are allergic to ozanimod, have had a heart attack or stroke recently, or have severe sleep apnea.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your doctor if you have a slow heart rate, high blood pressure, liver problems, or a history of infections.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Avoid becoming pregnant while on Zeposia and for 3 months after stopping. Discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as the effects on milk are unknown.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Special caution is advised for elderly patients with dementia.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Zeposia, affecting its efficacy.
Grapefruit interaction: Avoid grapefruit as it may affect how Zeposia works.
- Ciclosporin
- Eltrombopag
- Azathioprine
- Gemfibrozil
- Clopidogrel
- Rifampicin
- MAO inhibitors (e.g., phenelzine, selegiline)
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol and driving while on Zeposia.
Alcohol
Limit alcohol consumption as it may increase side effects.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful when driving or using machinery until you know how Zeposia affects you.
Temperature Regulation
Limit exposure to sunlight and UV light, as there may be an increased risk of skin cancer.
Storage
Store Zeposia capsules in their original packaging in a cool, dry place below 25°C, away from moisture and heat.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention by contacting your doctor or going to the nearest hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes for Zeposia to show effects can vary by individual.
Zeposia can be taken with or without food.
No, Zeposia is not considered addictive.
Stopping Zeposia suddenly may cause symptoms to return or worsen.
It's advisable to limit alcohol consumption while on Zeposia.
Weight gain is not specifically mentioned as a side effect of Zeposia.
Elderly patients should use Zeposia with caution, especially if they have dementia.
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.