Ponvory

Ponvory (ponesimod) can lower the levels of white blood cells in the body called lymphocytes. White blood cells are needed to help the body fight off infections. There is a higher risk of getting infections while taking Ponvory (ponesimod), such as herpes, chickenpox, meningitis, viral brain infection (progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy), and others. Your provider will order a blood test to check for your lymphocyte levels before starting Ponvory (ponesimod). If you currently have an infection, it's best to wait until your infection goes away before starting this medication. Let you provider know right away if you experience an infection while taking Ponvory (ponesimod). Your lymphocyte count can get back to normal within 1 to 2 weeks after stopping Ponvory (ponesimod).

Ponvory (ponesimod) can temporarily lower heart rate, usually within an hour of taking the medication. It can also cause temporary problems with the electrical system of the heart. The risk is higher when you start this medication for the first time. Because of the risk for heart problems, your provider will order a test to check your heart before you start Ponvory (ponesimod). The starter pack is used to help you lower the risk for heart problems by starting at a lower dose so that your body can get used to this medication. If you have certain heart problems, you might need to take your first dose of this medication at your provider's office so that they can monitor your heart afterwards. Talk with your provider if you have any heart problems so that they can let you know the benefit and risk of taking this medication.

Ponvory (ponesimod) can cause certain lung problems, which can affect your breathing. This usually happens during the first month of starting Ponvory (ponesimod). Let your provider know before starting this medication if you have a history of lung or breathing problems, and they can monitor your lungs during the treatment. Report any breathing problems or shortness of breath while taking Ponvory (ponesimod).

Ponvory (ponesimod) can cause liver problems, which usually happens within 3 months of starting this medication. Your provider will order blood test to check your liver before starting Ponvory (ponesimod) if you haven't had it checked within the last 6 months. You might need to stop this medication if you have liver damage. Let your provider know if you experience any symptoms of liver problems during your treatment, such as unexplained nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, tiredness, eating disorder (anorexia), rash, yellowing of the eyes or skin, or dark urine.

Ponvory (ponesimod) can raise your blood pressure levels. This can happen as early as after 1 month of treatment, and continue throughout your treatment. Check your blood pressure often and let your provider know of any changes.

Ponvory (ponesimod) might raise the risk of skin cancer. Speak to your provider about checking your skin occasionally, especially if you are at a higher risk for getting skin cancer. Let your provider know right away if you have a skin lesion that you are concerned about. Avoid being exposed to sunlight or ultraviolet light for a long time, and make sure you wear protective clothing and sunscreen when going outside.

Ponvory (ponesimod) can cause harm to the unborn baby, so make sure you use an effective birth control during the treatment and 1 week after stopping the medication.

Ponvory (ponesimod) can raise the risk of swelling, or build up of fluid, under the specific part of the eye called macula. Your provider might check your eyes before starting you on this medication. Let your provider know if you experience any vision changes while taking Ponvory (ponesimod).

Although rare, medications that are similar to Ponvory (ponesimod) have caused a problem in the brain called posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES). This problem is usually reversible once the medication is stopped. Although PRES has never been reported by people taking Ponvory (ponesimod), let your provider know right away if you have symptoms of PRES such as sudden severe headache, behavior changes, vision changes, confusion, and seizures. If so, stop Ponvory (ponesimod) and get medical help right away before it worsens into more serious problems like a stroke or bleeding in the brain.

Although rare, your condition might worsen after you stop taking Ponvory (ponesimod). Continue to follow up with your provider after your treatment, and let them know if your multiple sclerosis gets worse.