Fingolimod
Fingolimod is an immunomodulating medication used primarily to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis. It works by being metabolized into fingolimod-phosphate, which binds to and blocks sphingosine 1-phosphate receptors, preventing immune cells from leaving lymph nodes and reducing inflammation in the central nervous system.
Fingolimod is an S1P receptor modulator used to reduce relapses in multiple sclerosis by trapping immune cells in lymph nodes.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- L04AE01
- RxNorm
- 1012892
- Generic
- Fingolimod
- Class
- atc-l04
- Brands
- Gilenya, Tascenso
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet, capsule
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Fingolimod is used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), including clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting MS, and active secondary progressive MS in adults.
Fingolimod is metabolized by sphingosine kinase to its active form, fingolimod-phosphate. This active metabolite binds with high affinity to sphingosine 1-phosphate receptors 1, 3, 4, and 5, blocking their function and preventing lymphocytes from exiting lymph nodes, thereby reducing autoimmune-mediated damage to the central nervous system.
First-dose monitoring is required due to risk of bradycardia and atrioventricular block. Patients should be observed for 6 hours after the first dose. Live vaccines should be avoided during treatment. Common side effects include headache, liver enzyme elevations, diarrhea, and cough. May increase risk of infections and macular edema. Contraindicated in patients with recent myocardial infarction, unstable angina, stroke, or certain cardiac conditions.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy