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Compare Zeposia vs. Rebif

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Zeposia (ozanimod) and Rebif (interferon beta-1a) are both used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), but they have some key differences. Zeposia is taken orally once a day, while Rebif is an injectable medication that you need to take three times a week. Zeposia is a synthetic medication that works by blocking white blood cells from leaving your lymph nodes, which helps reduce inflammation. On the other hand, Rebif is a biologic that affects cell processes, though its exact mechanism for treating MS isn't fully understood. Zeposia can also treat moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis (UC), whereas Rebif is only approved for MS. Common side effects of Zeposia include infections and changes in liver tests, while Rebif often causes flu-like symptoms and injection site reactions. Both medications can increase the risk of liver damage and serious infections. Zeposia can also cause dangerously slow heart rate, high blood pressure, and breathing problems, while Rebif can increase the risk of seizures. Both medications are only available by brand name.

  • Zeposia (ozanimod)
    Rebif (interferon beta-1a)
  • Zeposia (ozanimod)
    Rebif (interferon beta-1a)

  • Summary of Zeposia vs. Rebif

    Summary for S1P receptor modulator
    Prescription only

    Zeposia (ozanimod) treats adults with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). This medication can also treat adults with ulcerative colitis (UC). It works as a sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator to relieve inflammation in the body. It's a capsule you take by mouth, usually once per day (or as directed by your prescriber if you have liver problems). You use a starter pack for the first week. It helps you slowly raise your dosage to a maintenance level. Side effects include upper respiratory infections and higher liver enzymes. Zeposia (ozanimod) is only available as a brand-name medication.

    Summary for Biologic
    Prescription only

    Rebif (interferon beta-1a) is an injectable biologic used for the treatment of relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS). However, it can cause uncomfortable flu-like symptoms as a side effect.

  • Indications of Zeposia vs. Rebif

    Indications for
    •Relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) in adults
    •Moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis (UC) in adults
    Indications for
    •Relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS)

  • Pros and Cons of Zeposia vs. Rebif

    Pros and Const for S1P receptor modulator
    Pros
    •Taken by mouth, with or without food
    •Taken once a day
    •Starter pack available to help guide dosing at the beginning of treatment
    Cons
    •Might raise your risk of infections
    •Not safe for people with certain heart problems or severe liver problems
    •Not approved for children
    Pros and Const for Biologic
    Pros
    •A disease-modifying therapy (DMT) that prevents worsening MS
    •One of the first DMTs approved for MS, so theres a lot of research and experience
    •Comes as an autoinjector pen and prefilled syringe for easy at-home injections
    •Can be stored at room temperature for up to 30 days
    Cons
    •Needs to be injected 3 times a week (more often than alternative medications like Avonex)
    •Not a first-choice treatment option for relapsing MS
    •Has many unpleasant side effects
    •Might not be a good option for people with a history of mental health conditions

  • Common Side Effects of Zeposia vs. Rebif

    Common Side Effects for
    •Upper respiratory infection (26%)
    •High liver enzyme levels (10%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Injection-site reaction (89%)
    •Headache (65%)
    •Flu-like symptoms (56%)
    •Fatigue (33%)
    •Fever (25%)
    •Muscle pain (25%)
    •Stomach pain (22%)

  • Warnings of Zeposia vs. Rebif

    Common Side Effects for
    •Risk of infections
    •Risk of brain infection (progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy)
    •Slow heart rate and heart rhythm
    •Higher blood pressure
    •Liver damage
    •Breathing problems
    •Eye problem called macular edema
    •Brain problem called posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES)
    •Possible risk of skin cancer
    •Harm to an unborn baby
    Common Side Effects for
    •Mental health
    •Liver damage
    •Injection site reactions and infections
    •Lower blood cell counts
    •Seizures

  • Prices with our coupons for Zeposia vs. Rebif

    Learn more about Zeposia
    Learn more about Rebif

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