Abstract
Objective:
To assess safety of the switch between natalizumab and fingolimod without a washout period.
Methods:
Prospective data on 25 JCV positive patients who underwent this medication switch were collected and analyzed.
Results:
After a median period of nine months from the medication switch, there were no safety issues to report. The patients had good disease control and no adverse events were reported.
Conclusion:
Washout may not be necessary in daily practice when switching from natalizumab to fingolimod. Expertise on multiple sclerosis management, however, is essential for drug switching.
MeSH terms
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Adult
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Drug Substitution*
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Female
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Fingolimod Hydrochloride / administration & dosage*
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Fingolimod Hydrochloride / adverse effects
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Humans
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Immunosuppressive Agents / administration & dosage*
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Immunosuppressive Agents / adverse effects
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JC Virus / drug effects
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JC Virus / immunology
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Leukoencephalopathy, Progressive Multifocal / complications
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Leukoencephalopathy, Progressive Multifocal / virology
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Male
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Multiple Sclerosis / complications
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Multiple Sclerosis / drug therapy*
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Natalizumab / administration & dosage*
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Natalizumab / adverse effects
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Prospective Studies
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Treatment Outcome
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Viral Load
Substances
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Immunosuppressive Agents
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Natalizumab
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Fingolimod Hydrochloride