Key takeaways
Mayzent (siponimod) and Rebif (interferon beta-1a) are both used to treat relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS), but they have some key differences. Mayzent is taken orally once daily as a tablet, while Rebif is an injected three times a week. Mayzent works by blocking white blood cells from leaving the lymph nodes, which helps reduce nerve damage, whereas Rebif is a biologic that affects cell processes through interferons, though its exact mechanism for treating MS is not fully understood. Mayzent requires genetic testing before starting treatment to determine the appropriate dose, while Rebif does not. Common side effects of Mayzent include headache and high blood pressure, while Rebif often causes flu-like symptoms and injection site reactions. Additionally, both medications are only available as a brand-name and can lower white blood cell counts.
