Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Mayzent (siponimod) and Gilenya (fingolimod) are both oral medications used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). They belong to the same drug class, sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulators, but have some differences. Mayzent is only available as a brand-name medication, while Gilenya has a generic form. Mayzent requires genetic testing before starting treatment to determine the appropriate dose, whereas Gilenya does not. Both medications can cause serious side effects, including infections and heart problems, but Mayzent might have fewer side effects because it works on fewer types of S1P receptors. Additionally, Mayzent is not recommended during pregnancy and requires birth control for at least 10 days after stopping, while Gilenya requires birth control for at least 2 months after stopping. Both medications are not considered safe for breastfeeding.
Mayzent (siponimod)
Fingolimod (Gilenya)
Mayzent (siponimod)
Fingolimod (Gilenya)
Summary of Mayzent vs. Gilenya
Summary for Sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulator
Prescription only
Mayzent (siponimod) is a disease-modifying treatment option for relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS) in adults. It can lower the chances of worsening MS and lower the number of MS relapses. Mayzent (siponimod) is a tablet that's taken by mouth. Common side effects include headache, high blood pressure, and falls. Mayzent (siponimod) is currently available as a brand-name only.
Summary for Sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulator
Prescription only
Fingolimod (Gilenya) is a disease-modifying treatment option for relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS). It works well to lower the number of MS relapses. Fingolimod (Gilenya) is taken by mouth, typically once daily, and can be used by adults and children age 10 years and older. But fingolimod (Gilenya) can cause potentially serious side effects, such as a higher risk for infections and heart problems, so it's not the best choice for everyone.
Indications of Mayzent vs. Gilenya
Indications for
•Relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS)
Indications for
•Relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS)
Pros and Cons of Mayzent vs. Gilenya
Pros and Const for Sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulator
Pros
•Works well to slow worsening of MS and lower the number of MS relapses
•Taken by mouth once per day
•Doesn't require frequent visits to the clinic or infusion center to receive your dose
Cons
•Requires several tests before starting (e.g., genetic testing, electrocardiogram, blood tests)
•Might not be a good option for people with heart or serious liver problems
•Not safe during pregnancy
Pros and Const for Sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulator
Pros
•Works well in both adults and children to lower the number of MS relapses
•Taken by mouth once per day
•Can be used in children age 10 and older
Cons
•First dose usually has to be observed for at least 6 hours
•Might not be safe for pregnant or breastfeeding females
•Not a good option for people with heart or liver problems