Mayzent

1 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ANNEX I 
 

SUMMARY OF PRODUCT CHARACTERISTICS 



2 

This medicinal product is subject to additional monitoring. This will allow quick identification of 

new safety information. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions. 

See section 4.8 for how to report adverse reactions. 

 

 

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 
 

Mayzent 0.25 mg film-coated tablets 

Mayzent 2 mg film-coated tablets 

 

 

2. QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE COMPOSITION 
 

Mayzent 0.25 mg film-coated tablets 

 

Each film-coated tablet contains siponimod fumaric acid equivalent to 0.25 mg siponimod. 

 

Excipient with known effect 

Each tablet contains 59.1 mg lactose (as monohydrate) and 0.092 mg soya lecithin. 

 

Mayzent 2 mg film-coated tablets 

 

Each film-coated tablet contains siponimod fumaric acid equivalent to 2 mg siponimod. 

 

Excipient with known effect 

Each tablet contains 57.3 mg lactose (as monohydrate) and 0.092 mg soya lecithin. 

 

For the full list of excipients, see section 6.1. 

 

 

3. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM 
 

Film-coated tablet 

 

Mayzent 0.25 mg film-coated tablets 

 

Pale red, round, biconvex, bevelled-edged film-coated tablet of approximately 6.1 mm diameter with 

company logo on one side and “T” on the other side. 
 

Mayzent 2 mg film-coated tablets 

 

Pale yellow, round, biconvex, bevelled-edged film-coated tablet of approximately 6.1 mm diameter 

with company logo on one side and “II” on the other side. 
 

 

4. CLINICAL PARTICULARS 
 

4.1 Therapeutic indications 
 

Mayzent is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis 

(SPMS) with active disease evidenced by relapses or imaging features of inflammatory activity (see 

section 5.1). 

 

  



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4.2 Posology and method of administration 
 

Treatment with siponimod should be initiated and supervised by a physician experienced in the 

management of multiple sclerosis. 

 

Before initiation of treatment, patients must be genotyped for CYP2C9 to determine their CYP2C9 

metaboliser status (see sections 4.4, 4.5 and 5.2). 

 

In patients with a CYP2C9*3*3 genotype, siponimod should not be used (see sections 4.3, 4.4 and 

5.2). 

 

In patients with a CYP2C9*2*3 or *1*3 genotype, the recommended maintenance dose is 1 mg taken 

once daily (four tablets of 0.25 mg) (see sections 4.4 and 5.2). 

 

The recommended maintenance dose of siponimod in all other CYP2C9 genotype patients is 2 mg. 

 

Mayzent is taken once daily. 

 

Posology 

 

Treatment initiation 

Treatment has to be started with a titration pack that lasts for 5 days. Treatment starts with 0.25 mg 

once daily on days 1 and 2, followed by once-daily doses of 0.5 mg on day 3, 0.75 mg on day 4, and 

1.25 mg on day 5, to reach the patient’s prescribed maintenance dose of siponimod starting on day 6 

(see Table 1). 

 

During the first 6 days of treatment initiation the recommended daily dose should be taken once daily 

in the morning with or without food. 

 

Table 1 Dose titration regimen to reach maintenance dosage 
 

Titration Titration dose Titration regimen Dose 

Day 1 0.25 mg 1 x 0.25 mg 

TITRATION 

Day 2 0.25 mg 1 x 0.25 mg 

Day 3 0.5 mg 2 x 0.25 mg 

Day 4 0.75 mg 3 x 0.25 mg 

Day 5 1.25 mg 5 x 0.25 mg 

Day 6 2 mg1 1 x 2 mg1 MAINTENANCE 
1 In patients with CYP2C9*2*3 or *1*3 genotype, the recommended maintenance dose is 1 mg 

taken once daily (4 x 0.25 mg) (see above and sections 4.4 and 5.2). Additional exposure of 

0.25 mg on day 5 does not compromise patient safety. 

 

Missed dose(s) during treatment initiation 

During the first 6 days of treatment, if a titration dose is missed on one day treatment needs to be 

re-initiated with a new titration pack. 

 

Missed dose after day 6 

If a dose is missed, the prescribed dose should be taken at the next scheduled time; the next dose 

should not be doubled. 

 

Re-initiation of maintenance therapy after treatment interruption 

If maintenance treatment is interrupted for 4 or more consecutive daily doses, siponimod needs to be 

re-initiated with a new titration pack. 

 



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Special populations 

Elderly 

Siponimod has not been studied in patients aged 65 years and above. Clinical studies included patients 

up to the age of 61 years. Siponimod should be used with caution in the elderly due to insufficient data 

on safety and efficacy (see section 5.2). 

 

Renal impairment 

Based on clinical pharmacology studies, no dose adjustment is needed in patients with renal 

impairment (see section 5.2). 

 

Hepatic impairment 

Siponimod must not be used in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class C) (see 

section 4.3). Although no dose adjustment is needed in patients with mild or moderate hepatic 

impairment, caution should be exercised when initiating treatment in these patients (see sections 4.4 

and 5.2). 

 

Paediatric population 

The safety and efficacy of siponimod in children and adolescents aged 0 to 18 years have not yet been 

established. No data are available. 

 

Method of administration 

 

Oral use. Siponimod is taken with or without food. 

 

The film-coated tablets should be swallowed whole with water. 

 

4.3 Contraindications 

 

- Hypersensitivity to the active substance, or to peanut, soya or any of the excipients listed in 
section 6.1. 

- Immunodeficiency syndrome. 
- History of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy or cryptococcal meningitis. 
- Active malignancies. 
- Severe liver impairment (Child-Pugh class C). 
- Patients who in the previous 6 months had a myocardial infarction (MI), unstable angina 

pectoris, stroke/transient ischaemic attack (TIA), decompensated heart failure (requiring 

inpatient treatment), or New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III/IV heart failure (see 

section 4.4). 

- Patients with a history of second-degree Mobitz type II atrioventricular (AV) block, 
third-degree AV block, sino-atrial heart block or sick-sinus syndrome, if they do not wear a 

pacemaker (see section 4.4). 

- Patients homozygous for CYP2C9*3 (CYP2C9*3*3) genotype (poor metaboliser). 
- During pregnancy and in women of childbearing potential not using effective contraception (see 

sections 4.4 and 4.6). 

 

4.4 Special warnings and precautions for use 

 

Infections 

 

Risk of infections 

A core pharmacodynamic effect of siponimod is a dose-dependent reduction of the peripheral 

lymphocyte count to 20-30% of baseline values. This is due to the reversible sequestration of 

lymphocytes in lymphoid tissues (see section 5.1). 

 

The immune system effects of siponimod may increase the risk of infections (see section 4.8). 

 



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Before initiating treatment, a recent complete blood count (CBC) (i.e. within last 6 months or after 

discontinuation of prior therapy) should be available. Assessments of CBC are also recommended 

periodically during treatment. Absolute lymphocyte counts <0.2 x 109/l, if confirmed, should lead to 

dose reduction to 1 mg, because in clinical studies siponimod dose was reduced in patients with 

absolute lymphocyte counts <0.2 x 109/l. Confirmed absolute lymphocyte counts <0.2 x 109/l in a 

patient already receiving siponimod 1 mg should lead to interruption of siponimod therapy until the 

level reaches 0.6 x 109/l when re-initiation of siponimod can be considered. 

 

Initiation of treatment should be delayed in patients with severe active infection until resolution. 

Because residual pharmacodynamic effects, such as lowering effects on peripheral lymphocyte count, 

may persist for up to 3 to 4 weeks after discontinuation, vigilance for infection should be continued 

throughout this period (see below section “Stopping siponimod therapy”). 

 

Patients should be instructed to report symptoms of infection to their physician promptly. Effective 

diagnostic and therapeutic strategies should be employed in patients with symptoms of infection while 

on therapy. Suspension of treatment with siponimod should be considered if a patient develops a 

serious infection. 

 

A case of cryptococcal meningitis (CM) has been reported for siponimod. Cases of CM have been 

reported for another sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator. Patients with symptoms and 

signs consistent with CM should undergo prompt diagnostic evaluation. Siponimod treatment should 

be suspended until CM has been excluded. If CM is diagnosed, appropriate treatment should be 

initiated. 

 

No cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported for siponimod in 

the development programme; however, they have been reported for another S1P receptor modulator. 

Physicians should be vigilant for clinical symptoms or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings 

that may be suggestive of PML. If PML is suspected, siponimod treatment should be suspended until 

PML has been excluded. 

 

Cases of herpes viral infection (including one case of reactivation of varicella zoster virus [VZV] 

infection leading to varicella zoster meningitis) have been reported in the siponimod development 

programme. Patients without a physician-confirmed history of varicella or without documentation of a 

full course of vaccination against VZV should be tested for antibodies to VZV before starting 

siponimod (see below section “Vaccination”). 

 

Vaccination 

A full course of vaccination with varicella vaccine is recommended for antibody-negative patients 

prior to commencing treatment with siponimod, following which initiation of treatment should be 

postponed for 1 month to allow the full effect of vaccination to occur (see section 4.8). 

 

The use of live attenuated vaccines should be avoided while patients are taking siponimod and for 

4 weeks after stopping treatment (see section 4.5). 

 

Vaccinations may be less effective if administered during siponimod treatment. Discontinuation of 

treatment 1 week prior to planned vaccination until 4 weeks after is recommended. When stopping 

siponimod therapy for vaccination, the possible return of disease activity should be considered (see 

below section “Stopping siponimod therapy”). 

 

Concomitant treatment with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating or immunosuppressive therapies 

Anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating or immunosuppressive therapies (including corticosteroids) 

should be co-administered with caution due to the risk of additive immune system effects during such 

therapy (see section 4.5). 

 



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Macular oedema 

 

Macular oedema with or without visual symptoms was more frequently reported on siponimod (1.8%) 

than on placebo (0.2%) in the phase III clinical study (see section 4.8). The majority of cases occurred 

within the first 3-4 months of therapy. An ophthalmological evaluation is therefore recommended 

3-4 months after treatment initiation. As cases of macular oedema have also occurred on longer-term 

treatment, patients should report visual disturbances at any time while on siponimod therapy and an 

evaluation of the fundus, including the macula, is recommended. 

 

Siponimod therapy should not be initiated in patients with macular oedema until resolution. 

 

Siponimod should be used with caution in patients with a history of diabetes mellitus, uveitis or 

underlying/co-existing retinal disease due to a potential increase in the risk of macular oedema (see 

section 4.8). It is recommended that these patients should undergo an ophthalmological evaluation 

prior to initiating therapy and regularly while receiving siponimod therapy to detect macular oedema. 

 

Continuation of siponimod therapy in patients with macular oedema has not been evaluated. It is 

recommended that siponimod be discontinued if a patient develops macular oedema. A decision on 

whether or not siponimod should be re-initiated after resolution needs to take into account the 

potential benefits and risks for the individual patient. 

 

Bradyarrhythmia 

 

Reduction in heart rate 

Initiation of siponimod treatment results in a transient decrease in heart rate (see sections 4.8 and 5.1), 

and a titration scheme to reach the maintenance dose on day 6 is therefore applied at the start of 

treatment (see section 4.2). 

 

After the first titration dose, the heart rate decrease starts within one hour and the day 1 decline is 

maximal at approximately 3 to 4 hours. With continued up-titration, further heart rate decreases are 

seen on subsequent days, with maximal decrease from day 1 (baseline) reached on day 5 to 6. The 

highest daily post-dose decrease in absolute hourly mean heart rate is observed on day 1, with the 

pulse declining on average 5 to 6 beats per minute (bpm). Post-dose declines on the following days are 

less pronounced. With continued dosing heart rate starts increasing after day 6 and reaches placebo 

levels within 10 days after treatment initiation. 

 

Heart rates below 40 bpm were rarely observed. Patients who experienced bradycardia were generally 

asymptomatic. A few patients experienced mild to moderate symptoms including dizziness and 

non-cardiac chest pain, which resolved within 24 hours without intervention (see section 4.8). If 

necessary, the decrease in heart rate induced by siponimod can be reversed by parenteral doses of 

atropine or isoprenaline. 

 

Atrioventricular conduction 

Initiation of siponimod treatment has been associated with transient atrioventricular conduction delays 

that follow a similar temporal pattern to the observed decrease in heart rate during dose titration. The 

atrioventricular conduction delays manifested in most of the cases as first-degree atrioventricular (AV) 

blocks (prolonged PR interval on electrocardiogram). In clinical studies, second-degree AV blocks, 

usually Mobitz type I (Wenckebach), have been observed in less than 1.7% of patients at the time of 

treatment initiation. The conduction abnormalities typically were transient, asymptomatic, resolved 

within 24 hours and did not require discontinuation of treatment. 

 

  



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Treatment initiation recommendation in patients with certain pre-existing cardiac conditions 

As a precautionary measure, patients with the following cardiac conditions should be observed for a 

period of 6 hours after the first dose of siponimod for signs and symptoms of bradycardia (see also 

section 4.3): 

- sinus bradycardia (heart rate <55 bpm), 
- history of first- or second-degree [Mobitz type I] AV block, 
- history of myocardial infarction, or 
- history of heart failure (patients with NYHA class I and II). 
In these patients, it is recommended that an electrocardiogram (ECG) is obtained prior to dosing and at 

the end of the observation period. If post-dose bradyarrhythmia or conduction-related symptoms occur 

or if ECG 6 hours post-dose shows new onset second-degree or higher AV block or QTc ≥500 msec, 

appropriate management should be initiated and observation continued until the symptoms/findings 

have resolved. If pharmacological treatment is required, monitoring should be continued overnight and 

6-hour monitoring should be repeated after the second dose. 

 

Due to the risk of serious cardiac rhythm disturbances or significant bradycardia, siponimod should 

not be used in patients with: 

- history of symptomatic bradycardia or recurrent syncope, 
- uncontrolled hypertension, or 
- severe untreated sleep apnoea. 
In such patients, treatment with siponimod should be considered only if the anticipated benefits 

outweigh the potential risks, and advice from a cardiologist should be sought prior to initiation of 

treatment in order to determine the most appropriate monitoring strategy. 

 

A thorough QT study demonstrated no significant direct QT-prolonging effect and siponimod is not 

associated with an arrhythmogenic potential related to QT prolongation. Initiation of treatment may 

result in decreased heart rate and indirect prolongation of the QT interval during the titration phase. 

Siponimod was not studied in patients with significant QT prolongation (QTc >500 msec) or who 

were treated with QT-prolonging medicinal products. If treatment with siponimod is considered in 

patients with pre-existing significant QT prolongation or who are already being treated with 

QT-prolonging medicinal products with known arrhythmogenic properties, advice from a cardiologist 

should be sought prior to initiation of treatment in order to determine the most appropriate monitoring 

strategy during treatment initiation. 

 

Siponimod has not been studied in patients with arrhythmias requiring treatment with class Ia (e.g. 

quinidine, procainamide) or class III (e.g. amiodarone, sotalol) antiarrhythmic medicinal products. 

Class Ia and class III antiarrhythmic medicinal products have been associated with cases of torsades de 

pointes in patients with bradycardia. Since initiation of treatment results in decreased heart rate, 

siponimod should not be used concomitantly with these medicinal products during treatment initiation. 

 

Experience is limited in patients receiving concurrent therapy with heart-rate-lowering calcium 

channel blockers (such as verapamil or diltiazem) or other substances that may decrease heart rate 

(e.g. ivabradine or digoxin) as these medicinal products were not studied in patients receiving 

siponimod in clinical studies. Concomitant use of these substances during treatment initiation may be 

associated with severe bradycardia and heart block. Because of the potential additive effect on heart 

rate, treatment with siponimod should generally not be initiated in patients who are concurrently 

treated with these substances (see section 4.5). In such patients, treatment with siponimod should be 

considered only if the anticipated benefits outweigh the potential risks. 

 

If concomitant treatment with one of the above substances is considered during initiation of treatment 

with siponimod, advice from a cardiologist should be sought regarding the switch to a 

non-heart-rate-lowering medicinal product or appropriate monitoring for treatment initiation. 

 

Bradyarrhythmic effects are more pronounced when siponimod is added to beta-blocker therapy. For 

patients receiving a stable dose of beta blocker, the resting heart rate should be considered before 

introducing treatment. If the resting heart rate is >50 bpm under chronic beta-blocker treatment, 

siponimod can be introduced. If resting heart rate is ≤50 bpm, then beta-blocker treatment should be 



8 

interrupted until the baseline heart rate is >50 bpm. Treatment with siponimod can then be initiated 

and treatment with beta blocker can be re-initiated after siponimod has been up-titrated to the target 

maintenance dose (see section 4.5). 

 

Liver function 

 

Recent (i.e. within last 6 months) transaminase and bilirubin levels should be available before 

initiation of treatment with siponimod. 

 

In the phase III clinical study, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) or aspartate aminotransferase (AST) 

three times the upper limit of normal (ULN) was observed in 5.6% of patients treated with siponimod 

2 mg compared to 1.5% of patients who received placebo (see section 4.8). In clinical studies 

treatment was discontinued if the elevation exceeded a 3-fold increase and the patient showed 

symptoms related to hepatic function or if the elevation exceeded a 5-fold increase. In the phase III 

clinical study, 1% of all discontinuations met one of these criteria. 

 

Patients who develop symptoms suggestive of hepatic dysfunction should have liver enzymes checked 

and siponimod should be discontinued if significant liver injury is confirmed. Resumption of therapy 
will be dependent on whether or not another cause of liver injury is determined and on the benefits to 

the patient of resuming therapy versus the risks of recurrence of liver dysfunction. 

 

Although there are no data to establish that patients with pre-existing liver disease are at increased risk 

of developing elevated liver function test values when taking siponimod, caution should be exercised 

in patients with a history of significant liver disease. 

 

Cutaneous neoplasms 

 

In study A2304, basal cell carcinoma was the most common neoplasm and was reported with a 

similiar incidence in the siponimod 2 mg (1.01%, 12 patients) and placebo (1.23%, 7 patients) groups. 

However, other skin malignancies, including melanoma, have also been reported in patients treated 

with siponimod and in patients on long-term therapy with another S1P modulator. Patients treated with 

siponimod should be cautioned against exposure to sunlight without protection. These patients should 

not receive concomitant phototherapy with UV-B radiation or PUVA-photochemotherapy. 

 

Unexpected neurological or psychiatric symptoms/signs 

 

Rare cases of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) have been reported for another 

sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator. Such events have not been reported for siponimod 
in the development programme. However, should a patient on siponimod treatment develop any 
unexpected neurological or psychiatric symptoms/signs (e.g. cognitive deficits, behavioural changes, 

cortical visual disturbances or any other neurological cortical symptoms/signs or any symptom/sign 

suggestive of an increase in intracranial pressure) or accelerated neurological deterioration, a complete 

physical and neurological examination should promptly be scheduled and MRI should be considered. 

 

Prior treatment with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating therapies 

 

When switching from other disease-modifying therapies, the half-life and mode of action of the other 

therapy must be considered to avoid an additive immune effect whilst at the same time minimising the 

risk of disease reactivation. A peripheral lymphocyte count (CBC) is recommended prior to initiating 

siponimod to ensure that immune effects of the previous therapy (i.e. cytopenia) have resolved. 

 

Due to the characteristics and duration of alemtuzumab immune suppressive effects described in its 

product information, initiating treatment with siponimod after alemtuzumab is not recommended. 

 

Siponimod can generally be started immediately after discontinuation of beta interferon or glatiramer 

acetate. 

 



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Blood pressure effects 

 

Patients with hypertension uncontrolled by medication were excluded from participation in clinical 

studies and special care is indicated if patients with uncontrolled hypertension are treated with 

siponimod. 
 

Hypertension was more frequently reported in patients on siponimod (12.6%) than in those given 

placebo (9.0%) in the phase III clinical study in patients with SPMS. Treatment with siponimod 

resulted in an increase of systolic and diastolic blood pressure starting early after treatment initiation, 

reaching maximum effect after approximately 6 months of treatment (systolic 3 mmHg, diastolic 

1.2 mmHg) and staying stable thereafter. The effect persisted with continued treatment. 

 

Blood pressure should be regularly monitored during treatment with siponimod. 

 

CYP2C9 genotype 

 

Before initiation of treatment with siponimod, patients should be genotyped for CYP2C9 to determine 

their CYP2C9 metaboliser status (see section 4.2). Patients homozygous for CYP2C9*3 

(CYP2C9*3*3 genotype: approximately 0.3 to 0.4% of the population) should not be treated with 

siponimod. Use of siponimod in these patients results in substantially elevated siponimod plasma 

levels. The recommended maintenance dose is 1 mg daily in patients with a CYP2C9*2*3 genotype 

(1.4-1.7% of the population) and in patients with a *1*3 genotype (9-12% of the population) to avoid 

increased exposure to siponimod (see sections 4.2 and 5.2). 

 

Women of childbearing potential 

 

Due to risk for the foetus, siponimod is contraindicated during pregnancy and in women of 

childbearing potential not using effective contraception. Before initiation of treatment, women of 

childbearing potential must be informed of this risk to the foetus, must have a negative pregnancy test 

and must use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 10 days after treatment 

discontinuation (see sections 4.3 and 4.6). 

 

Stopping siponimod therapy 

 

Severe exacerbation of disease, including disease rebound, has been rarely reported after 

discontinuation of another S1P receptor modulator. The possibility of severe exacerbation of disease 

after stopping siponimod treatment should be considered. Patients should be observed for relevant 

signs of possible severe exacerbation or return of high disease activity upon siponimod discontinuation 

and appropriate treatment should be instituted as required. 

 

After siponimod therapy has been stopped, siponimod remains in the blood for up to 10 days. Starting 

other therapies during this interval will result in concomitant exposure to siponimod. 

 

In the vast majority (90%) of SPMS patients, lymphocyte counts return to the normal range within 

10 days of stopping therapy. However, residual pharmacodynamic effects, such as lowering effects on 

peripheral lymphocyte count, may persist for up to 3-4 weeks after the last dose. Use of 

immunosuppressants within this period may lead to an additive effect on the immune system and 

therefore caution should be exercised for 3 to 4 weeks after the last dose. 

 

Interference with haematological testing 

 

Since siponimod reduces blood lymphocyte counts via re-distribution in secondary lymphoid organs, 

peripheral blood lymphocyte counts cannot be utilised to evaluate the lymphocyte subset status of a 

patient treated with siponimod. Laboratory tests involving the use of circulating mononuclear cells 

require larger blood volumes due to reduction in the number of circulating lymphocytes. 

 



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Excipients 

 

The tablets contain soya lecithin. Patients who are hypersensitive to peanut or soya should not take 

siponimod (see section 4.3). 

 

The tablets contain lactose. Patients with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, total 

lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption should not take this medicinal product. 

 

4.5 Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction 
 

Antineoplastic, immune-modulating or immunosuppressive therapies 

 

Siponimod has not been studied in combination with antineoplastic, immune-modulating or 

immunosuppressive therapies. Caution should be exercised during concomitant administration due to 

the risk of additive immune effects during such therapy and in the weeks after administration of any of 

these medicinal products is stopped (see section 4.4). 

 

Due to the characteristics and duration of alemtuzumab immune suppressive effects described in its 

product information, initiating treatment with siponimod after alemtuzmab is not recommended unless 

the benefits of treatment clearly outweigh the risks for the individual patient (see section  4.4). 

 

Anti-arrhythmic medicinal products, QT-prolonging medicinal products, medicinal products that may 

decrease heart rate 

 

During treatment initiation siponimod should not be concomitantly used in patients receiving class Ia 

(e.g. quinidine, procainamide) or class III (e.g. amiodarone, sotalol) anti-arrhythmic medicinal 

products, QT-prolonging medicinal products with known arrhythmogenic properties, 

heart-rate-lowering calcium channel blockers (such as verapamil or diltiazem) or other substances that 

may decrease heart rate (e.g. ivabradine or digoxin) because of the potential additive effects on heart 

rate (see section 4.4). No data are available for concomitant use of these medicinal products with 

siponimod. Concomitant use of these substances during treatment initiation may be associated with 

severe bradycardia and heart block. Because of the potential additive effect on heart rate, treatment 

with siponimod should generally not be initiated in patients who are concurrently treated with these 

substances (see section 4.4). If treatment with siponimod is considered, advice from a cardiologist 

should be sought regarding the switch to non-heart-rate-lowering medicinal products or appropriate 

monitoring for treatment initiation. 

 

Beta blockers 

 

Caution should be exercised when siponimod is initiated in patients receiving beta blockers due to the 

additive effects on lowering heart rate (see section 4.4). Beta-blocker treatment can be initiated in 

patients receiving stable doses of siponimod. 

 

The negative chronotropic effect of co-administration of siponimod and propranolol was evaluated in 

a dedicated pharmacodynamic/safety study. The addition of propranolol on top of siponimod 

pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic steady state had less pronounced negative chronotropic effects 

(less than additive) in comparison to addition of siponimod on top of propranolol 

pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic steady state (additive HR effect). 

 

Vaccination 

 

The use of live attenuated vaccines may carry the risk of infection and should therefore be avoided 

during siponimod treatment and for up to 4 weeks after treatment (see section 4.4). 

 

During and for up to 4 weeks after treatment with siponimod vaccinations may be less effective. The 

efficacy of vaccination is not considered to be compromised if siponimod treatment is paused 1 week 

prior to vaccination until 4 weeks after (see section 4.4). 



11 

 

Potential of other medicinal products to affect siponimod pharmacokinetics 

 

Siponimod is metabolised primarily by cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) (79.3%) and to a lesser 

extent by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) (18.5%). CYP2C9 is a polymorphic enzyme and the 

drug-drug interaction (DDI) effect in the presence of CYP3A or CYP2C9 perpetrator drugs is 

predicted to be dependent on the CYP2C9 genotype. 

 

CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 inhibitors 

Because of a significant increase in exposure to siponimod, concomitant use of siponimod and 

medicinal products that cause moderate CYP2C9 and moderate or strong CYP3A4 inhibition is not 

recommended. This concomitant drug regimen can consist of a moderate CYP2C9/CYP3A4 dual 

inhibitor (e.g. fluconazole) or a moderate CYP2C9 inhibitor in combination with a separate moderate 

or strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. 

 

The co-administration of fluconazole (moderate CYP2C9/strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) 200 mg daily at 

steady state and a single dose of siponimod 4 mg in healthy volunteers with a CYP2C9*1*1 genotype 

led to a 2-fold increase in the area under the curve (AUC) of siponimod. According to evaluation of 

the drug interaction potential using physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modelling, a 

maximum of a 2-fold increase in the AUC of siponimod is predicted across genotypes with any type of 

CYP3A4 and CYP2C9 inhibitors except for patients with a CYP2C9*2*2 genotype. In CYP2C9*2*2 

patients, a 2.7-fold increase in the AUC of siponimod is expected in the presence of moderate 

CYP2C9/CYP3A4 inhibitors. 

 

CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 inducers 

Siponimod may be combined with most types of CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 inducers. However, because 

of an expected reduction in siponimod exposure, the appropriateness and possible benefit of the 

treatment should be considered when siponimod is combined: 

- with strong CYP3A4/moderate CYP2C9 inducers (e.g. carbamazepine) in all patients regardless 
of genotype 

- with moderate CYP3A4 inducers (e.g. modafinil) in patients with a CYP2C9*1*3 or *2*3 
genotype. 

 

A significant reduction of siponimod exposure (by up to 76% and 51%, respectively) is expected 

under these conditions according to evaluation of the drug interaction potential using PBPK 

modelling. The co-administration of siponimod 2 mg daily in the presence of 600 mg daily doses of 

rifampin (strong CYP3A4 and moderate CYP2C9 inducer) decreased siponimod AUCtau,ss and Cmax,ss 

by 57% and 45%, respectively, in CY2C9*1*1 subjects. 

 

Oral contraceptives 

 

Co-administration with siponimod did not reveal clinically relevant effects on the pharmacokinetics 

and pharmacodynamics of the combined ethinylestradiol and levonorgestrel oral contraceptive. 

Therefore the efficacy of the investigated oral contraceptive was maintained under siponimod 

treatment. 

 

No interaction studies have been performed with oral contraceptives containing other progestagens, 

however an effect of siponimod on the efficacy of oral contraceptives is not expected. 

 



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4.6 Fertility, pregnancy and lactation 
 

Women of childbearing potential/Contraception in females 

 

Siponimod is contraindicated in women of childbearing potential not using effective contraception 

(see section 4.3). Therefore, before initiation of treatment in women of childbearing potential a 

negative pregnancy test result must be available and counselling should be provided regarding serious 

risk to the foetus. Women of childbearing potential must use effective contraception during treatment 

and for at least ten days following the last dose of siponimod (see section 4.4). 

 

Specific measures are also included in the Physician Education Pack. These measures must be 

implemented before siponimod is prescribed to female patients and during treatment. 

 

When stopping siponimod therapy for planning a pregnancy, the possible return of disease activity 

should be considered (see section 4.4). 

 

Pregnancy 

 

There are no or limited amount of data available from the use of siponimod in pregnant women. 

Animal studies have demonstrated siponimod-induced embryotoxicity and foetotoxicity in rats and 

rabbits and teratogenicity in rats, including embryo-foetal deaths and skeletal or visceral 

malformations at exposure levels comparable to the human exposure at the daily dose of 2 mg (see 

section 5.3). In addition, clinical experience with another sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor modulator 

indicated a 2-fold higher risk of major congenital malformations when administered during pregnancy 

compared with the rate observed in the general population. 

 

Consequently, siponimod is contraindicated during pregnancy (see section 4.3). Siponimod should be 

stopped at least 10 days before a pregnancy is planned (see section 4.4). If a woman becomes pregnant 

while on treatment, siponimod must be discontinued. Medical advice should be given regarding the 

risk of harmful effects to the foetus associated with treatment and ultrasonography examinations 

should be performed. 

 

Breast-feeding 

 

It is unknown whether siponimod or its major metabolites are excreted in human milk. Siponimod and 

its metabolites are excreted in the milk of rats. Siponimod should not be used during breast-feeding. 

 

Fertility 

 

The effect of siponimod on human fertility has not been evaluated. Siponimod had no effect on male 

reproductive organs in rats and monkeys or on fertility parameters in rats. 

 

4.7 Effects on ability to drive and use machines 
 

Siponimod has no or negligible influence on the ability to drive and use machines. However, dizziness 

may occasionally occur when initiating therapy with siponimod. Therefore, patients should not drive 

or use machines during the first day of treatment initiation with siponimod (see section 4.4). 

 

  



13 

4.8 Undesirable effects 
 

Summary of the safety profile 

 

The most common adverse drug reactions are headache (15%) and hypertension (12.6%). 

 

Tabulated list of adverse reactions 

 

Within each system organ class, the adverse drug reactions are ranked by frequency, with the most 

frequent reactions first. In addition, the corresponding frequency category for each adverse drug 

reaction is based on the following convention: very common (≥1/10); common (≥1/100 to <1/10); 

uncommon (≥1/1,000 to <1/100); rare (≥1/10,000 to <1/1,000); very rare (<1/10,000). 

 

Table 2 Tabulated list of adverse reactions 

 

Infections and infestations 

Common Herpes zoster 

Neoplasms benign, malignant and unspecified (incl. cysts and polyps) 

Common Melanocytic naevus 

Blood and lymphatic system disorders 

Common Lymphopenia 

Nervous system disorders 

Very common Headache 

Common Dizziness 

Seizure 

Tremor 

Eye disorders 

Common Macular oedema 

Cardiac disorders 

Common Bradycardia 

Atrioventricular block (first and second degree) 

Vascular disorders 

Very common Hypertension 

Gastrointestinal disorders 

Common Nausea 

Diarrhoea 

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders 

Common Pain in extremity 

General disorders and administration site conditions 

Common Oedema peripheral 

Asthenia 

Investigations 

Very common Liver function test increased 

Common Pulmonary function test decreased 

 

Description of selected adverse reactions 

 

Infections 

In the phase III clinical study in patients with SPMS the overall rate of infections was comparable 

between the patients on siponimod and those on placebo (49.0% versus 49.1%, respectively). 

However, an increase in the rate of herpes zoster infections was reported on siponimod (2.5%) 

compared to placebo (0.7%). In the extension part of the phase III clinical study, a case of 

cryptococcal meningitis (CM) has been reported (see section 4.4). 

 



14 

Macular oedema 

Macular oedema was more frequently reported in patients receiving siponimod (1.8%) than in those 

given placebo (0.2%). Although the majority of cases occurred within 3 to 4 months of commencing 

siponimod, cases were also reported in patients treated with siponimod for more than 6 months (see 

section 4.4). Some patients presented with blurred vision or decreased visual acuity, but others were 

asymptomatic and diagnosed on routine ophthalmological examination. The macular oedema 

generally improved or resolved spontaneously after discontinuation of treatment. The risk of 

recurrence after re-challenge has not been evaluated. 

 

Bradyarrhythmia 

Initiation of siponimod treatment results in a transient decrease in heart rate and may also be 

associated with atrioventricular conduction delays (see section 4.4). Bradycardia was reported in 6.2% 

of patients treated with siponimod compared to 3.1% on placebo and AV block in 1.7% of patients 

treated with siponimod compared to 0.7% on placebo (see section 4.4). 

 

The maximum decline in heart rate is seen in the first 6 hours post-dose. 

 

A transient, dose-dependent decrease in heart rate was observed during the initial dosing phase and 

plateaued at doses ≥5 mg. Bradyarrhythmic events (AV blocks and sinus pauses) were detected with a 

higher incidence under siponimod treatment compared to placebo. 

 

Most AV blocks and sinus pauses occurred above the therapeutic dose of 2 mg, with notably higher 

incidence under non-titrated conditions compared to dose titration conditions. 

 

The decrease in heart rate induced by siponimod can be reversed by atropine or isoprenaline. 

 

Liver function tests 

Increased hepatic enzymes (mostly ALT elevation) have been reported in MS patients treated with 

siponimod. In the phase III study in patients with SPMS, liver function test increases were more 

frequently observed in patients on siponimod (11.3%) than in those on placebo (3.1%), mainly due to 

liver transaminase (ALT/AST) and GGT elevations. The majority of elevations occurred within 

6 months of starting treatment. ALT levels returned to normal within approximately 1 month after 

discontinuation of siponimod (see section 4.4). 

 

Blood pressure 

Hypertension was more frequently reported in patients on siponimod (12.6%) than in those given 

placebo (9.0%) in the phase III clinical study in patients with SPMS. Treatment with siponimod 

resulted in an increase of systolic and diastolic blood pressure starting early after treatment initiation, 

reaching maximum effect after approximately 6 months of treatment (systolic 3 mmHg, diastolic 

1.2 mmHg) and staying stable thereafter. The effect persisted with continued treatment. 

 

Seizures 

Seizures were reported in 1.7% of patients treated with siponimod compared to 0.4% on placebo in the 

phase III clinical study in patients with SPMS. 

 

Respiratory effects 

Minor reductions in forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and in the diffusing capacity of the 

lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO) values were observed with siponimod treatment. At months 3 and 

6 of treatment in the phase III clinical study in patients with SPMS, mean changes from baseline in 

FEV1 in the siponimod group were -0.1 L at each time point, with no change in the placebo group. 

These observations were slightly higher (approximately 0.15 L mean change from baseline in FEV1) in 

patients with respiratory disorders such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma 

treated with siponimod. On chronic treatment, this reduction did not translate into clinically significant 

adverse events and was not associated with an increase in reports of cough or dyspnoea (see 

section 5.1). 

 



15 

Reporting of suspected adverse reactions 

 

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It 

allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare 

professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via the national reporting system 

listed in Appendix V. 

 

4.9 Overdose 
 

In healthy subjects, the single maximum tolerated dose was determined to be 25 mg based upon the 

occurrence of symptomatic bradycardia after single doses of 75 mg. A few subjects received 

unintended doses of up to 200 mg daily for 3 to 4 days and experienced asymptomatic mild to 

moderate transient elevations of liver function tests. 

 

One patient (with a history of depression) who took 84 mg siponimod experienced a slight elevation in 

liver transaminases. 

 

If the overdose constitutes first exposure to siponimod or occurs during the dose titration phase of 

siponimod it is important to observe for signs and symptoms of bradycardia, which could include 

overnight monitoring. Regular measurements of pulse rate and blood pressure are required and 

electrocardiograms should be performed (see sections 4.2 and 4.4). 

 

There is no specific antidote to siponimod available. Neither dialysis nor plasma exchange would 

result in meaningful removal of siponimod from the body. 

 

 

5. PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES 
 

5.1 Pharmacodynamic properties 
 

Pharmacotherapeutic group: Immunosuppressants, selective immunosuppressants, ATC code: 

L04AA42 

 

Mechanism of action 

 

Siponimod is a sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator. Siponimod binds selectively to 

two out of five G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) for S1P, namely S1P1 and S1P5. By acting as a 

functional antagonist on S1P1 receptors on lymphocytes, siponimod prevents egress from lymph 

nodes. This reduces the recirculation of T cells into the central nervous system (CNS) to limit central 

inflammation. 

 

Pharmacodynamic effects 

 

Reduction of the peripheral blood lymphocytes 

Siponimod induces a dose-dependent reduction of the peripheral blood lymphocyte count within 

6 hours of the first dose, due to the reversible sequestration of lymphocytes in lymphoid tissues. 

 

With continued daily dosing, the lymphocyte count continues to decrease, reaching a nadir median 

(90% CI) lymphocyte count of approximately 0.560 (0.271-1.08) cells/nL in a typical CYP2C9*1*1 or 

*1*2 non-Japanese SPMS patient, corresponding to 20-30% of baseline. Low lymphocyte counts are 

maintained with daily dosing. 

 

In the vast majority (90%) of SPMS patients, lymphocyte counts return to the normal range within 

10 days of stopping therapy. After stopping siponimod treatment residual lowering effects on 

peripheral lymphocyte count may persist for up to 3-4 weeks after the last dose. 

 



16 

Heart rate and rhythm 

Siponimod causes a transient reduction in heart rate and atrioventricular conduction on treatment 

initiation (see sections 4.4 and 4.8), which is mechanistically related to the activation of 

G-protein-coupled inwardly rectifying potassium (GIRK) channels via S1P1 receptor stimulation 

leading to cellular hyperpolarisation and reduced excitability. Due to its functional antagonism at S1P1 

receptors, initial titration of siponimod successively desensitises GIRK channels until the maintenance 

dose is reached. 

 

Potential to prolong the QT interval 

The effects of therapeutic (2 mg) and supratherapeutic (10 mg) doses of siponimod on cardiac 

repolarisation were investigated in a thorough QT study. The results did not suggest an 

arrhythmogenic potential related to QT prolongation with siponimod. Siponimod increased the 

placebo-corrected baseline-adjusted mean QTcF (ΔΔQTcF) by more than 5 ms, with a maximum 

mean effect of 7.8 ms (2 mg) and 7.2 ms (10 mg), respectively, at 3 h post-dose. The upper bound of 

the one-sided 95% CI for the ΔΔQTcF at all time points remained below 10 ms. Categorical analysis 

revealed no treatment-emergent QTc values above 480 ms, no QTc increases from baseline of more 

than 60 ms and no corrected or uncorrected QT/QTc value exceeded 500 ms. 

 

Pulmonary function 

Siponimod treatment with single or multiple doses for 28 days is not associated with clinically 

relevant increases in airway resistance as measured by forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) 

and forced expiratory flow (FEF) during expiration of 25 to 75% of the forced vital capacity 

(FEF25-75%). A slight trend of reduced FEV1 was detected at non-therapeutic single doses (>10 mg). 

Multiple doses of siponimod were associated with mild to moderate changes in FEV1 and FEF25-75% 

which were not dose- and daytime-dependent and were not associated with any clinical signs of 

increased airway resistance. 

 

Clinical efficacy and safety 

 

The efficacy of siponimod has been investigated in a phase III study evaluating once-daily doses of 

2 mg in patients with SPMS. 

 

Study A2304 (EXPAND) in SPMS 

Study A2304 was a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, event and follow-up duration 

driven, phase III study in patients with SPMS who had documented evidence of progression in the 

prior 2 years in the absence or independent of relapses, no evidence of relapse in the 3 months prior to 

study enrolment and with a median Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score of 3.0 to 6.5 at 

study entry. The median EDSS was 6.0 at baseline. Patients above 61 years of age were not included. 

With regard to disease activity, features characteristic of inflammatory activity in SPMS can be 

relapse- or imaging-related (i.e. Gd-enhancing T1 lesions or active [new or enlarging] T2 lesions). 

 

Patients were randomised 2:1 to receive either once-daily siponimod 2 mg or placebo. Clinical 

evaluations were performed at screening and every 3 months and at the time of relapse. MRI 

evaluations were performed at screening and every 12 months. 

 

The primary endpoint of the study was the time to 3-month confirmed disability progression (CDP) 

determined as at least a 1-point increase from baseline in EDSS (0.5 point increase for patients with 

baseline EDSS of 5.5 or more) sustained for 3 months. Key secondary endpoints were time to 3-month 

confirmed worsening of at least 20% from baseline in the timed 25-foot walk test (T25W) and change 

from baseline in T2 lesion volume. Additional secondary endpoints included time to 6-month CDP, 

percent brain volume change and measures of inflammatory disease activity (annualised relapse rate, 

MRI lesions). Change in cognitive processing speed on Symbol Digit Modality Test score was an 

exploratory endpoint. 

 

  



17 

Study duration was variable for individual patients (median study duration was 21 months, 

range: 1 day to 37 months). 

 

The study involved randomisation of 1,651 patients to either siponimod 2 mg (N=1,105) or placebo 

(N=546); 82% of patients treated with siponimod and 78% of placebo-treated patients completed the 

study. Median age was 49 years, median disease duration was 16 years and median EDSS score was 

6.0 at baseline. 64% of patients had no relapses in the 2 years prior to study entry and 76% had no 

gadolinium (Gd)-enhancing lesions on their baseline MRI scan. 78% of patients had been previously 

treated with a therapy for their MS. 

 

Time to onset of 3-month and 6-month CDP was significantly delayed for siponimod, with reduction 

in risk of 3-month CDP by 21% compared to placebo (hazard ratio [HR] 0.79, p=0.0134) and 

reduction in risk of 6-month CDP by 26% compared to placebo (HR 0.74, p=0.0058). 

 

Figure 1 Patients with 3- and 6-month CDP based on EDSS-Kaplan-Meier curves (full 

analysis set, study A2304) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Number of patients at risk 

Placebo (N=546) 

P
e

rc
en

ta
ge

 o
f 

su
b

je
ct

s 
w

it
h

 3
-m

o
n

th
 C

D
P
 

P
e

rc
en

ta
ge

 o
f 

su
b

je
ct

s 
w

it
h

 6
-m

o
n

th
 C

D
P
 

Siponimod (N=1099) 

Study month 

Siponimod 
Placebo 

0 

10 

20 

30 

40 

50 

0 

10 

20 

30 

40 

50 

0 6 12 18 24 30 36 42 0 6 12 18 24 30 36 42 

Hazard ratio: 0.79, p=0.0134; (95% Cl: 0.65, 
0.95); risk reduction: 21% 

Hazard ratio: 0.74, p=0.0058; (95% 
Cl: 0.60, 0.92); risk reduction: 26% 

Study month 

1099 947 781 499 289 101 4 0 
546 463 352 223 124 35 0 0 

Number of patients at risk 
Siponimod 

Placebo 
1099 960 811 525 306 106 5 0 

546 473 361 230 128 37 1 0 

Time to 3-month CDP versus placebo 
(Primary endpoint)  

Time to 6-month CDP versus placebo 



18 

Table 3 Clinical and MRI results of study A2304 

 

Endpoints A2304 (EXPAND) 

Siponimod 2 mg 

(n=1,099) 

Placebo 

(n=546) 

Clinical endpoints 

Primary efficacy endpoint: 

Proportion of patients with 3-month confirmed 

disability progression (primary endpoint) 

26.3% 31.7% 

Risk reduction1 21% (p=0.0134) 

Proportion of patients with 3-month confirmed 

20% increase in timed 25-foot walk test 

39.7% 41.4% 

Risk reduction1 6% (p=0.4398) 

Proportion of patients with 6-month confirmed 

disability progression 

19.9% 25.5% 

Risk reduction1 26% [(p=0.0058)]6 

Annualised relapse rate (ARR) 0.071 0.152 

Rate reduction2 55% [(p<0.0001)]6 

MRI endpoints 

Change from baseline in T2 lesion volume 

(mm3)3 

+184 mm3 +879 mm3 

Difference in T2 lesion volume change -695 mm3 (p<0.0001)7 

Percentage brain volume change relative to 

baseline (95% CI)3 

-0.497% -0.649% 

Difference in percentage brain volume change 0.152% [(p=0.0002)]6 

Average cumulative number of Gd-enhancing T1 

weighted lesions (95% CI)4 

0.081 0.596 

Rate reduction 86% [(p<0.0001)]6 

Proportion of patients with 4-point worsening in 

Symbol Digit Modality Test5 

16.0% 20.9% 

Risk reduction1 25% [(p=0.0163)]6 
1 From Cox modelling for time to progression 
2 From a model for recurrent events 
3 Average over month 12 and month 24 
4 Up to month 24 
5 Confirmed at 6 months 
6 [Nominal p-value for endpoints not included in the hierarchical testing and not adjusted for 

multiplicity] 
7 Non-confirmatory p-value; hierarchical testing procedure terminated before reaching endpoint 

 

Results from the study showed a variable but consistent risk reduction in the time to 3- and 6-month 

CDP with siponimod compared to placebo in subgroups defined based on gender, age, pre-study 

relapse activity, baseline MRI disease activity, disease duration and disability levels at baseline. 

 

In the subgroup of patients (n=779) with active disease (defined as patients with relapse in the 2 years 

prior to the study and/or presence of Gd-enhancing T1 lesions at baseline) the baseline characteristics 

were similar to the overall population. Median age was 47 years, median disease duration was 15 years 

and median EDSS score at baseline was 6.0. 

 

Time to onset of 3-month and 6-month CDP was significantly delayed in siponimod-treated patients 

with active disease, by 31% compared to placebo (hazard ratio [HR] 0.69; 95% CI: 0.53, 0.91) and by 

37% compared to placebo (HR 0.63; 95% CI: 0.47, 0.86), respectively. The ARR (confirmed relapses) 

was reduced by 46% (ARR ratio 0.54; 95% CI: 0.39, 0.77) compared to placebo. The relative rate 

reduction of cumulative number of Gd-enhancing T1 weighted lesions over 24 months was 85% (rate 

ratio 0.155; 95% CI: 0.104, 0.231) compared to placebo. The differences in T2 lesion volume change 



19 

and in percentage of brain volume change (average over months 12 and 24) compared to placebo 

were -1163 mm3 (95% CI: -1484, -843 mm3) and 0.141% (95% CI: 0.020, 0.261%), respectively. 

 

Figure 2 Patients with 3- and 6-month CDP based on EDSS-Kaplan-Meier curves – 

Subgroup with active SPMS (full analysis set, study A2304) 

 

 

In the subgroup of patients (n=827) without signs and symptoms of disease activity (defined as 

patients without relapse in the 2 years prior to the study and without presence of Gd-enhancing T1 

lesions at baseline), effects on 3-month and 6-month CDP were small (risk reductions were 7% and 

13%, respectively). 

 

Paediatric population 

 

The European Medicines Agency has deferred the obligation to submit the results of studies with 

siponimod in one or more subsets of the paediatric population in the treatment of multiple sclerosis 

(see section 4.2 for information on paediatric use). 

 

5.2 Pharmacokinetic properties 

 

Absorption 

 

The time (Tmax) to reach maximum plasma concentrations (Cmax) after multiple oral administration of 

siponimod is about 4 hours (range: 2 to 12 hours). Siponimod absorption is extensive (≥70%, based on 

the amount of radioactivity excreted in urine and the amount of metabolites in faeces extrapolated to 

infinity). The absolute oral bioavailability of siponimod is approximately 84%. For 2 mg siponimod 

given once daily over 10 days, a mean Cmax of 30.4 ng/ml and mean AUCtau of 558 h*ng/ml were 

observed on day 10. Steady state was reached after approximately 6 days of multiple once-daily 

administration of siponimod. 

 

Despite a delay in Tmax to 8 hours after a single dose, food intake had no effect on the systemic 

exposure of siponimod (Cmax and AUC), therefore siponimod may be taken without regard to meals 

(see section 4.2). 

 

Number of patients at risk 

Placebo (N=263) 

P
e

rc
en

ta
ge

 o
f 

p
at

ie
n

ts
 w

it
h

 3
-m

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th
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P
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en

ta
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f 

p
at

ie
n

ts
 w

it
h

 6
-m

o
n

th
 C

D
P
 

Siponimod (N=516) 

Study month 

Siponimod 
Placebo 

0 

10 

20 

30 

40 

0 

10 

20 

30 

40 

0 6 12 18 24 30 36 42 0 6 12 18 24 30 36 

Study month 

516 439 376 245 149 48 1 0 
263 221 164 112 68 19 0 0 

Number of patients at risk 
Siponimod 

Placebo 

Time to 3-month CDP versus placebo 
(Primary endpoint) 

Time to 6-month CDP versus placebo 

42 

516 447 391 258 156 51 1 0 
263 225 171 115 68 20 0 0 

50 

Hazard ratio: 0.69 (95% Cl: 0.53, 

0.91); risk reduction: 31% 

Hazard ratio: 0.63 (95% Cl: 0.47, 

0.86); risk reduction: 37% 



20 

Distribution 

 

Siponimod is distributed to body tissues with a moderate mean volume of distribution of 124 litres. 

The siponimod fraction found in plasma is 68% in humans. Siponimod readily crosses the blood-brain 

barrier. Protein binding of siponimod is >99.9% in healthy subjects and in patients with hepatic or 

renal impairment. 

 

Biotransformation 

 

Siponimod is extensively metabolised, mainly by cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) (79.3%), and to a 

lesser extent by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) (18.5%). 

 

The pharmacological activity of the main metabolites M3 and M17 is not expected to contribute to the 

clinical effect and the safety of siponimod in humans. 

 

In vitro investigations indicated that siponimod and its major systemic metabolites M3 and M17 do 

not show any clinically relevant drug-drug interaction potential at the therapeutic dose of 2 mg once 

daily for all investigated CYP enzymes and transporters, and do not necessitate clinical investigation. 

 

CYP2C9 is polymorphic and the genotype influences the fractional contributions of the two oxidative 

metabolism pathways to overall elimination. PBPK modelling indicates a differential CYP2C9 

genotype-dependent inhibition and induction of CYP3A4 pathways. With decreased CYP2C9 

metabolic activity in the respective genotypes, a larger effect of the CYP3A4 perpetrators on 

siponimod exposure is anticipated (see section 4.5). 

 

Elimination 

 

An apparent systemic clearance (CL/F) of 3.11 l/h was estimated in MS patients. The apparent 

elimination half-life of siponimod is approximately 30 hours. 

 

Siponimod is eliminated from the systemic circulation mainly due to metabolism and subsequent 

biliary/faecal excretion. Unchanged siponimod was not detected in urine. 

 

Linearity 

 

Siponimod concentration increases in an apparent dose proportional manner after multiple once-daily 

doses of siponimod 0.3 mg to 20 mg. 

 

Steady-state plasma concentrations are reached after approximately 6 days of once-daily dosing and 

steady-state levels are approximately 2- to 3-fold greater than after the initial dose. An up-titration 

regimen is used to reach the clinically therapeutic dose of 2 mg siponimod after 6 days and 

4 additional days of dosing are required to reach the steady-state plasma concentrations. 

 

Characteristics in specific groups or special populations 

 

CYP2C9 genotype 

The CYP2C9 genotype influences siponimod CL/F. Two population pharmacokinetic analyses 

indicated that CYP2C9*1*1 and *1*2 subjects behave as extensive metabolisers, *2*2 and *1*3 

subjects as intermediate metabolisers and *2*3 and *3*3 subjects as poor metabolisers. Compared to 

CYP2C9*1*1 subjects, individuals with the CYP2C9*2*2, *1*3, *2*3 and *3*3 genotypes have 20%, 

35-38%, 45-48% and 74% smaller CL/F values, respectively. Siponimod exposure is therefore 

approximately 25%, 61%, 91% and 284% higher in CYP2C9*2*2, *1*3, *2*3 and *3*3 subjects, 

respectively, as compared to *1*1 subjects (see Table 4) (see sections 4.2 and 4.4). 

 



21 

Table 4 CYP2C9 genotype effect on siponimod CL/F and systemic exposure 
 

CYP2C9 

genotype 

Frequency in 

Caucasians 

Estimated CL/F 

(L/h) 

% of 

CYP2C9*1*1 

CL/F 

% exposure 

increase versus 

CYP2C9*1*1 

Extensive metabolisers 

CYP2C9*1*1 62-65 3.1-3.3 100 - 

CYP2C9*1*2 20-24 3.1-3.3 99-100 - 

Intermediate metabolisers 

CYP2C9*2*2 1-2 2.5-2.6 80 25 

CYP2C9*1*3 9-12 1.9-2.1 62-65 61 

Poor metabolisers 

CYP2C9*2*3 1.4-1.7 1.6-1.8 52-55 91 

CYP2C9*3*3 0.3-0.4 0.9 26 284 

 

Elderly 

Results from population pharmacokinetics suggest that dose adjustment is not necessary in elderly 

patients (age 65 years and above). No patients over 61 years of age were enrolled in clinical studies. 

Siponimod should be used with caution in the elderly (see section 4.2). 

 

Gender 

Results from population pharmacokinetics suggest that gender-based dose adjustment is not necessary. 

 

Race/Ethnicity 

The single-dose pharmacokinetic parameters were not different between Japanese and Caucasian 

healthy subjects, indicating absence of ethnic sensitivity on the pharmacokinetics of siponimod. 

 

Renal impairment 

No siponimod dose adjustments are needed in patients with mild, moderate or severe renal 

impairment. Mean siponimod half-life and Cmax (total and unbound) were comparable between 

subjects with severe renal impairment and healthy subjects. Total and unbound AUCs were only 

slightly increased (by 23 to 33%) compared to healthy subjects. The effects of end-stage renal disease 

or haemodialysis on the pharmacokinetics of siponimod have not been studied. Due to the high plasma 

protein binding (>99.9%) of siponimod, haemodialysis is not expected to alter the total and unbound 

siponimod concentration and no dose adjustments are anticipated based on these considerations. 

 

Hepatic impairment 

Siponimod must not be used in patients with severe hepatic impairment (see section 4.3). No dose 

adjustments for siponimod are needed in patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment. The 

unbound siponimod pharmacokinetics AUC is 15% and 50% higher in subjects with moderate and 

severe hepatic impairment, respectively, in comparison with healthy subjects for the 0.25 mg single 

dose studied. The mean half-life of siponimod was unchanged in hepatic impairment. 

 

5.3 Preclinical safety data 
 

In repeat-dose toxicity studies in mice, rats and monkeys, siponimod markedly affected the lymphoid 

system (lymphopenia, lymphoid atrophy and reduced antibody response), which is consistent with its 

primary pharmacological activity at S1P1 receptors (see section 5.1). 

 

Dose-limiting toxicities in animal species were nephrotoxicity in mice, body weight development in 

rats and adverse CNS and gastrointestinal effects in monkeys. The main target organs of toxicity in 

rodents included the lung, liver, thyroid, kidney and uterus/vagina. In monkeys, effects on muscle and 

skin were additionally observed. These toxicities developed at more than 30-fold higher systemic 

siponimod levels than the AUC-based human exposure at the maintenance dose of 2 mg/day. 

 

Siponimod did not exert any phototoxic or dependence potential and was not genotoxic in vitro and in 

vivo. 



22 

 

Carcinogenicity 

 

In carcinogenicity investigations, siponimod induced lymphoma, haemangioma and 

haemangiosarcoma in mice, whereas follicular adenoma and carcinoma of the thyroid gland were 

identified in male rats. These tumour findings were either regarded as mouse-specific or attributable to 

metabolic liver adaptations in the particularly sensitive rat species and are of questionable human 

relevance. 

 

Fertility and reproductive toxicity 

 

Siponimod did not affect male and female fertility in rats up to the highest dose tested, representing an 

approximate 19-fold safety margin based on human systemic exposure (AUC) at a daily dose of 2 mg. 

 

The receptor affected by siponimod (sphinosine-1-phosphate receptor) is known to be involved in 

vascular formation during embryogenesis. 

 

In embryofoetal development studies conducted in rats and rabbits, siponimod induced embryotoxic 

effects in the absence of maternal toxicity. In both species, prenatal mortality was increased. While in 

rats a higher number of foetuses with external, skeletal and visceral malformations (e.g. cleft palate 

and misshapen clavicles, cardiomegaly and oedema) were noted, in rabbit foetuses skeletal and 

visceral variations were predominantly observed. 

 

In the prenatal and postnatal development study performed in rats, there was in increased number of 

dead (stillborn or found dead before postnatal day 4) and malformed pups (male pups with urogenital 

malformations and/or decreased anogenital distance; pups of both sexes with oedema, swollen soft 

cranium, or flexed hindlimbs). 

 

The exposure levels (AUC) at the respective NOAELs for embryofoetal (rats and rabbits) and 

pre/postnatal (rats) development were below the human systemic exposure (AUC) at a daily dose of 

2 mg and consequently no safety margin exists. 

 

 

  



23 

6. PHARMACEUTICAL PARTICULARS 

 

6.1 List of excipients 
 

Mayzent 0.25 mg film-coated tablets 

 

Tablet core 

 

Lactose monohydrate 

Microcrystalline cellulose 

Crospovidone 

Glycerol dibehenate 

Colloidal anhydrous silica 

 

Tablet coating 

 

Polyvinyl alcohol 

Titanium dioxide (E171) 

Red iron oxide (E172) 

Black iron oxide (E172) 

Talc 

Soya lecithin 

Xanthan gum 

 

Mayzent 2 mg film-coated tablets 

 

Tablet core 

 

Lactose monohydrate 

Microcrystalline cellulose 

Crospovidone 

Glycerol dibehenate 

Colloidal anhydrous silica 

 

Tablet coating 

 

Polyvinyl alcohol 

Titanium dioxide (E171) 

Yellow iron oxide (E172) 

Red iron oxide (E172) 

Talc 

Soya lecithin 

Xanthan gum 

 

6.2 Incompatibilities 
 

Not applicable. 

 

6.3 Shelf life 

 

2 years 

 

6.4 Special precautions for storage 

 

Do not store above 25°C. 

 



24 

6.5 Nature and contents of container 

 

Mayzent 0.25 mg film-coated tablets 

 

Titration packs of 12 film-coated tablets in PA/alu/PVC/alu blister in wallet. 

Packs of 84 or 120 film-coated tablets in PA/alu/PVC/alu blisters. 

 

Mayzent 2 mg film-coated tablets 

 

Packs of 14, 28 or 98 film-coated tablets in PA/alu/PVC/alu blisters. 

 

Not all pack sizes may be marketed. 

 

6.6 Special precautions for disposal 
 

No special requirements for disposal. 

 

 

7. MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 
 

Novartis Europharm Limited 

Vista Building 

Elm Park, Merrion Road 

Dublin 4 

Ireland 

 

 

8. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S) 
 

Mayzent 0.25 mg film-coated tablets 

 

EU/1/19/1414/001 

EU/1/19/1414/002 

EU/1/19/1414/004 

 

Mayzent 2 mg film-coated tablets 

 

EU/1/19/1414/003 

EU/1/19/1414/005 

EU/1/19/1414/006 

 

 

9. DATE OF FIRST AUTHORISATION/RENEWAL OF THE AUTHORISATION 
 

13 January 2020 

 

 

10. DATE OF REVISION OF THE TEXT 

 

 

 

Detailed information on this medicinal product is available on the website of the European Medicines 

Agency http://www.ema.europa.eu. 

  



25 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ANNEX II 
 

A. MANUFACTURER(S) RESPONSIBLE FOR BATCH 

RELEASE 

 

B. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS REGARDING SUPPLY 

AND USE 

 

C. OTHER CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS OF THE 

MARKETING AUTHORISATION 

 

D. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS WITH REGARD TO 

THE SAFE AND EFFECTIVE USE OF THE MEDICINAL 

PRODUCT 

 



26 

A. MANUFACTURER(S) RESPONSIBLE FOR BATCH RELEASE 
 

Name and address of the manufacturer(s) responsible for batch release 

 

Novartis Pharma GmbH 

Roonstrasse 25 

D-90429 Nuremberg 

Germany 

 

 

B. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS REGARDING SUPPLY AND USE 

 

Medicinal product subject to restricted medical prescription (see Annex I: Summary of Product 

Characteristics, section 4.2). 

 

 

C. OTHER CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS OF THE MARKETING 

AUTHORISATION 

 

 Periodic safety update reports (PSURs) 
 

The requirements for submission of PSURs for this medicinal product are set out in the list of 

Union reference dates (EURD list) provided for under Article 107c(7) of Directive 2001/83/EC 

and any subsequent updates published on the European medicines web-portal. 

 

The marketing authorisation holder (MAH) shall submit the first PSUR for this product within 

6 months following authorisation. 

 

 

D. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS WITH REGARD TO THE SAFE AND 

EFFECTIVE USE OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 

 

 Risk management plan (RMP) 
 

The marketing authorisation holder (MAH) shall perform the required pharmacovigilance 

activities and interventions detailed in the agreed RMP presented in Module 1.8.2 of the 

marketing authorisation and any agreed subsequent updates of the RMP. 

 

An updated RMP should be submitted: 

 At the request of the European Medicines Agency; 

 Whenever the risk management system is modified, especially as the result of new information 
being received that may lead to a significant change to the benefit/risk profile or as the result of 

an important (pharmacovigilance or risk minimisation) milestone being reached. 

 

 Additional risk minimisation measures 
 

Prior to launch of Mayzent in each Member State the Marketing Authorisation Holder (MAH) must 

agree about the content and format of the educational programme, including communication media, 

distribution modalities, and any other aspects of the programme, with the National Competent 

Authority (NCA). 

 

The MAH shall ensure that in each Member State (MS) where Mayzent is marketed, all physicians 

who intend to prescribe Mayzent are provided with an updated Physician Education Pack, including: 

 Summary of Product Characteristics; 

 Physician’s Checklist to consider prior to prescribing Mayzent; 

 Patient/Caregiver Guide to be provided to all patients; 

 Pregnancy Reminder Card for women of childbearing potential. 



27 

 

Physician’s Checklist: 
 

The Physician’s Checklist shall contain the following key messages: 

 

 Potential long-term safety implications in CYP2C9 poor metabolisers: 

 Perform genotyping for CYP2C9 before treatment initiation to determine the siponimod 
maintenance dose. Test requires a DNA sample obtained via blood or saliva (buccal 

swab). The test identifies two variant alleles for CYP2C9: CYP2C9*2 (rs1799853, 

c.430C>T) and CYP2C9*3 (rs1057910, c.1075A>C). Both are single nucleotide 

polymorphisms. This genotyping can be done using a Sanger sequencing method or 

PCR-based assay methods. For further clarifications please refer to your local laboratory. 

 Do not prescribe siponimod in patients homozygous for CYP2C9*3*3. 

 Adjust the maintenance dose to 1 mg in patients with CYP2C9*2*3 or *1*3 genotypes. 
 

 Bradyarrhythmia (including conduction defects) during treatment initiation: 

 Initiate treatment with a titration pack that lasts for 5 days. Start treatment with 0.25 mg 
on day 1, up-titrated to the maintenance dose of 2 mg or 1 mg on day 6 based on the 

CYP2C9 metaboliser status. 

 If a titration dose is missed on one day during the first 6 days of treatment, treatment must 
be re-initiated with a new titration pack. 

 If the maintenance dose is interrupted for 4 or more consecutive daily doses, treatment 
must be re-initiated with a new titration pack. 

 Monitoring requirements at treatment initiation: 
Prior to initiating treatment: 

o Perform vitals and baseline ECG prior to the first dose of siponimod in patients 
with sinus bradycardia (heart rate [HR] <55 bpm), history of first- or 

second-degree [Mobitz type I] AV block, or a history of myocardial infarction or 

heart failure (patients with NYHA class I and II). 

Until 6 hours after first dose: 

o Observe patients with sinus bradycardia (heart rate <55 bpm), history of first- or 
second-degree [Mobitz type I] AV block or a history of myocardial infarction or 

heart failure (patients with NYHA class I and II) for a period of 6 hours after the 

first dose of siponimod for signs and symptoms of bradycardia and obtain an ECG 

at the end of the 6-hour monitoring period. 

o If necessary, the decrease in heart rate induced by siponimod can be reversed by 
parenteral doses of atropine or isoprenaline. 

Extended observation (>6 hours after first dose): 

o If, at the 6-hour time point, the heart rate is at the lowest value following the first 
dose, extend heart rate monitoring for at least 2 more hours and until the heart rate 

increases again. 

o Extend heart rate monitoring for at least overnight in a medical facility and until 
resolution of findings in patients requiring pharmacological intervention during 

monitoring at treatment initiation/re-initiation. Repeat the first-dose monitoring 

after the second dose of siponimod. 

o Appropriate management should be initiated and observation continued until the 
symptoms/findings have resolved if the following events are observed: 

a. New onset third-degree AV block occurring at any time 
b. Where at the 6-hour time point the ECG shows: New onset second-degree or 

higher AV block, or QTc interval ≥500 msec 

If pharmacological treatment is required, monitoring should be continued overnight 

and 6-hour monitoring should be repeated after the second dose. 

  



28 

 Mayzent is contraindicated in: 

 Patients who, in the previous 6 months, had a myocardial infarction, unstable 
angina pectoris, stroke/transient ischaemic attack (TIA), decompensated heart 

failure (requiring in-patient treatment), or New York Heart Association (NYHA) 

class III/IV heart failure. 

 Patients with a history of second-degree Mobitz type II atrioventricular (AV) 
block, third-degree AV block, sino-atrial heart block or sick sinus syndrome, if 

they do not wear a pacemaker. 

 Mayzent is not recommended in: 

 Patients with the below conditions. Siponimod treatment should be considered in 
these patients only if the anticipated benefits outweigh the potential risks and a 

cardiologist must be consulted to determine appropriate monitoring. At least 

overnight extended monitoring is recommended. 

o QTc prolongation >500 msec 
o Severe untreated sleep apnoea 
o History of symptomatic bradycardia 
o History of recurrent syncope 
o Uncontrolled hypertension 
o Concomitant treatment with class Ia (e.g. quinidine, procainamide) or 

class III anti-arrhythmic medications, calcium channel blockers (such as 

verapamil, diltiazem) and other medications (e.g. ivabradine or digoxin) 

which are known to decrease the heart rate 

 

 Infections, including varicella zoster reactivation, reactivation of the other viral infections, PML 
and other rare opportunistic infections: 

 There is an increased risk of infections including serious infections, in patients treated 
with siponimod. 

 Before initiating treatment, a recent complete blood count (CBC) (i.e. within 6 months or 
after discontinuation of prior therapy) should be available. Assessments of CBC are also 

recommended periodically during treatment. 

 Before starting siponimod, test for antibodies to varicella zoster virus (VZV) in patients 
without a physician-confirmed history of varicella or without documentation of a full 

course of vaccination against VZV. If tested negative, vaccination is recommended and 

treatment with siponimod should be postponed for 1 month to allow the full effect of 

vaccination to occur. 

 Siponimod is contraindicated in patients with immunodeficiency syndrome. 

 Siponimod is contraindicated in patients with history of progressive multifocal 
leukoencephalopathy or cryptococcal meningitis. 

 Do not initiate siponimod treatment in patients with severe active infection until infection 
is resolved. 

 Exercise caution when administering concomitant treatment with anti-neoplastic, 
immune-modulating or immunosuppressive therapies (including corticosteroids) due to 

the risk of additive immune system effects. 

 Patients should be instructed to report signs and symptoms of infections immediately to 
their prescriber during and for up to one month after treatment with siponimod. 

 Monitor patients carefully for signs and symptoms of infections during and after 
treatment with siponimod: 

 A case of cryptococcal meningitis (CM) has been reported for siponimod. Prompt 
diagnostic evaluation should be performed in patients with symptoms and signs 

consistent with cryptococcal meningitis; appropriate treatment, if diagnosed, 

should be initiated. Siponimod treatment should be suspended until CM has been 

excluded. 

 Cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported 
with another sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator. Physicians should 

be vigilant for clinical symptoms or MRI findings suggestive of PML. If PML is 

suspected, treatment should be suspended until PML has been excluded. 



29 

 

 Macular oedema: 

 Arrange an ophthalmological evaluation prior to initiating therapy and follow-up 
evaluations while receiving therapy in patients with a history of diabetes mellitus, uveitis 

or underlying/co-existing retinal disease. 

 An ophthalmological evaluation 3-4 months after treatment initiation with siponimod is 
recommended. 

 Instruct the patient to report visual disturbances at any time while on siponimod therapy. 

 Do not initiate siponimod treatment in patients with macular oedema until resolution. 
 

 Reproductive toxicity: 

 Siponimod is contraindicated during pregnancy and in women of childbearing potential 
not using effective contraception. Advise women of potential serious risks to the foetus if 

siponimod is used during pregnancy or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking it. 

 A negative pregnancy test result is required prior to initiation of treatment in women of 
childbearing potential. 

 Women of childbearing potential should be counselled before treatment initiation and 
regularly thereafter about the serious risks of siponimod to the foetus, facilitated by the 

pregnancy-specific patient reminder card. 

 Women of childbearing potential must use effective contraception during treatment and 
for at least 10 days following discontinuation of treatment with siponimod. 

 Siponimod should be stopped at least 10 days before a pregnancy is planned. When 
stopping siponimod for planning a pregnancy the possible return of disease activity 

should be considered. 

 Counsel the patient in case of inadvertent pregnancy. 

 If a woman becomes pregnant while on treatment with siponimod, treatment must be 
discontinued. Pregnant women should be advised of potential serious risks to the foetus, 

and ultrasonography examinations should be performed. 

 Should a pregnancy occur during treatment or within 10 days following discontinuation 
of treatment with siponimod, please report it to Novartis by calling [insert local number] 

or visiting [insert URL], irrespective of adverse outcomes observed. 

 Novartis has put in place a PRegnancy outcomes Intensive Monitoring (PRIM) 
programme, which is a registry based on enhanced follow-up mechanisms to collect 

information about pregnancy in patients exposed to siponimod immediately before or 

during pregnancy and on infant outcomes 12 months post-delivery. 

 

  



30 

 Other reminders: 

 Perform liver function tests prior to initiating siponimod treatment. If patients develop 
symptoms suggestive of hepatic dysfunction during treatment with siponimod, request a 

liver enzymes check. Discontinue treatment if significant liver injury is confirmed. 

Siponimod is contraindicated in patients with severe liver impairment (Child-Pugh 

class C). 

 Be vigilant for skin malignancies while on treatment with siponimod. Patients treated 
with siponimod should be cautioned against exposure to sunlight without protection. 

These patients should not receive concomitant phototherapy with UV-B radiation or 

PUVA-photochemotherapy. Siponimod is contraindicated in patients with active 

malignancies. 

 Should a patient develop any unexpected neurological or psychiatric symptoms/signs or 
accelerated neurological deterioration, a complete physical and neurological examination 

should promptly be scheduled and MRI should be considered. 

 Caution should be exercised in elderly patients with multiple co-morbidities, or advanced 
disease/disability (due to possible increased risks of, for example, infections, 

bradyarrhythmic events during treatment initiation). 

 If siponimod is discontinued, the possibility of recurrence of high disease activity should 
be considered. 

 Provide patients with the Patient/Caregiver Guide and Pregnancy Reminder Card for 
women of childbearing potential. 

 Be familiar with the Mayzent Prescribing Information. 
 

  



31 

Patient/Caregiver Guide: 
 

The Patient/Caregiver Guide shall contain the following key messages: 

 

 What Mayzent is and how it works. 

 What multiple sclerosis is. 

 Patients should read the package leaflet thoroughly before starting treatment and should keep 
the package leaflet in case they need to refer to it again during treatment. 

 The importance of reporting adverse reactions. 

 Before starting treatment, a DNA sample via blood or saliva (buccal swab) is taken to determine 
the CYP2C9 genotype to help determine appropriate dosing of siponimod. In certain cases the 

patient may not receive treatment with siponimod due to specific CYP2C9 genotype status. 

 Patients need to have chickenpox vaccination 1 month before starting siponimod treatment, if 
the patient is not protected against the virus. 

 Siponimod is not recommended in patients with cardiac disease or taking concomitant 
medicines known to decrease heart rate. Patients should tell any doctor they see that they are 

being treated with siponimod. 

 For patients with certain heart problems, an ECG before initiating treatment with siponimod 
will be needed. The need for observation (including an ECG monitoring) for 6 hours in a clinic 

after the first dose of siponimod on day 1, if the patient has heart problems. Information that the 

monitoring may need to extend overnight, if the patient experiences symptoms during the first 

6 hours. 

 Patients should report immediately symptoms indicating low heart rate (such as dizziness, 
vertigo, nausea or palpitations) after the first dose of siponimod and during the titration period. 

 Before starting treatment patients should provide a recent complete blood count. 

 The signs and symptoms of infection during, and up to one month after treatment with 
siponimod need to be reported immediately to the prescriber. 

 Patients should report any symptoms of visual impairment immediately to the prescriber during 
and for up to one month after the end of treatment with siponimod. 

 Patients should call the doctor if a dose is missed during the first 6 days of treatment or for 4 or 
more consecutive days after initiating treatment with siponimod. Treatment needs to be 

reinitiated with a new titration pack. 

 Liver function tests should be performed before starting treatment and repeated if there are 
symptoms suggestive of hepatic dysfunction. 

 Patients should report any unexpected neurological or psychiatric symptoms/signs (such as 
sudden onset of severe headache, confusion, seizures and vision changes) or accelerated 

neurological deterioration to their doctors. 

 Due to the potential teratogenic risk of siponimod women of childbearing potential should: 

 Be informed before treatment initiation and regularly thereafter by their physician about 
siponimod serious risks to the foetus and about the contraindication in pregnant women 

and in women of childbearing potential not using effective contraception, facilitated by 

the Pregnancy Reminder Card. 

 Have a negative pregnancy test before starting siponimod, which should be repeated at 
suitable intervals. 

 Be using effective contraception during treatment and for at least 10 days after stopping 
treatment to avoid pregnancy due to the potential risk of harm to the unborn baby. 

 Report immediately to the prescribing physician any (intended or unintended) pregnancy, 
during treatment and up to 10 days following discontinuation of siponimod treatment. 

 Patients should be informed about the risk of skin malignancies while on treatment with 
siponimod and should be cautioned against exposure to sunlight without protection. Also, these 

patients should not receive concomitant phototherapy with UV-B radiation or 

PUVA-photochemotherapy. 

 After stopping treatment with Mayzent, patients should inform their doctor immediately if their 
disease symptoms are getting worse (e.g. weakness or visual changes) or if they notice any new 

symptoms. 

 Contact details of the siponimod prescriber. 



32 

 

Pregnancy Reminder Card for women of childbearing potential: 
 

The pregnancy-specific patient reminder card shall contain the following key messages: 

 

 Siponimod is contraindicated during pregnancy and in women of childbearing potential not 
using effective contraception. 

 Doctors will provide counselling before treatment initiation and regularly thereafter regarding 
the potential teratogenic risk of siponimod and required actions to minimise this risk. 

 Patients will be informed by their doctor of the need for effective contraception while on 
treatment and for 10 days after discontinuation. 

 A pregnancy test must be carried out and negative results verified by the doctor before starting 
treatment. It must be repeated at suitable intervals. 

 Patients must use effective contraception during the treatment with siponimod. 

 While on treatment, women must not become pregnant. If a woman becomes pregnant or wants 
to become pregnant, siponimod should be discontinued. Effective contraception should be 

maintained for at least 10 days following discontinuation of treatment with siponimod. 

 Doctors will provide counselling in the event of pregnancy and evaluation of the outcome of 
any pregnancy. 

 Patients should inform their doctor straight away if there is worsening of multiple sclerosis after 
stopping treatment with siponimod. 

 Women exposed to siponimod during pregnancy are encouraged to join the pregnancy exposure 
programme (PRegnancy outcomes Intensive Monitoring, PRIM) that monitors outcomes of 

pregnancy. 

 Should a pregnancy occur during treatment or within 10 days following discontinuation of 
treatment with siponimod, it should be immediately reported to the doctor or to Novartis by 

calling [insert local number] or visiting [insert URL], irrespective of adverse outcomes 

observed. 

 

  



33 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ANNEX III 

 

LABELLING AND PACKAGE LEAFLET 

  



34 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A. LABELLING 
  



35 

 

PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON THE OUTER PACKAGING 

 

CARTON OF UNIT PACK 

 

 

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 

 

Mayzent 0.25 mg film-coated tablets 

siponimod 

 

 

2. STATEMENT OF ACTIVE SUBSTANCE(S) 

 

Each tablet contains 0.25 mg siponimod (as fumaric acid). 

 

 

3. LIST OF EXCIPIENTS 

 

Contains lactose and soya lecithin. See leaflet for further information. 

 

 

4. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM AND CONTENTS 

 

Film-coated tablet 

 

Titration pack 

12 film-coated tablets 

84 film-coated tablets 

120 film-coated tablets 

 

 

5. METHOD AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION 

 

Read the package leaflet before use. 

Oral use 

 

 

6. SPECIAL WARNING THAT THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT MUST BE STORED OUT 

OF THE SIGHT AND REACH OF CHILDREN 

 

Keep out of the sight and reach of children. 

 

 

7. OTHER SPECIAL WARNING(S), IF NECESSARY 

 

 

8. EXPIRY DATE 

 

EXP 

 

 

9. SPECIAL STORAGE CONDITIONS 

 

Do not store above 25°C. 



36 

 

 

10. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR DISPOSAL OF UNUSED MEDICINAL PRODUCTS 

OR WASTE MATERIALS DERIVED FROM SUCH MEDICINAL PRODUCTS, IF 

APPROPRIATE 

 

 

11. NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 

 

Novartis Europharm Limited 

Vista Building 

Elm Park, Merrion Road 

Dublin 4 

Ireland 

 

 

12. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S) 

 

EU/1/19/1414/001 Titration pack of 12 film-coated tablets 

EU/1/19/1414/002 120 film-coated tablets 

EU/1/19/1414/004 84 film-coated tablets 

 

 

13. BATCH NUMBER 

 

Lot 

 

 

14. GENERAL CLASSIFICATION FOR SUPPLY 

 

 

15. INSTRUCTIONS ON USE 

 

 

16. INFORMATION IN BRAILLE 

 

Mayzent 0.25 mg 

 

 

17. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER – 2D BARCODE 

 

2D barcode carrying the unique identifier included. 

 

 

18. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER - HUMAN READABLE DATA 

 

PC 

SN 
NN 

  



37 

 

PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON THE INNER PACKAGING 

 

WALLET CONTAINING BLISTER (titration pack of 12 film-coated tablets of 0.25 mg) 

 

 

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 

 

Mayzent 0.25 mg film-coated tablets 

siponimod 

 

 

2. STATEMENT OF ACTIVE SUBSTANCE(S) 

 

Each tablet contains 0.25 mg siponimod (as fumaric acid). 

 

 

3. LIST OF EXCIPIENTS 

 

Contains lactose and soya lecithin. See leaflet for further information. 

 

 

4. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM AND CONTENTS 

 

Film-coated tablet 

 

Titration pack 

12 film-coated tablets 

 

 

5. METHOD AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION 

 

Read the package leaflet before use. 

Oral use 

Take tablet(s) at the same time every day. 

Start 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

 

 

6. SPECIAL WARNING THAT THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT MUST BE STORED OUT 

OF THE SIGHT AND REACH OF CHILDREN 

 

Keep out of the sight and reach of children. 

 

 

7. OTHER SPECIAL WARNING(S), IF NECESSARY 

 

 

8. EXPIRY DATE 

 

EXP 



38 

 

 

9. SPECIAL STORAGE CONDITIONS 

 

Do not store above 25°C. 

 

 

10. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR DISPOSAL OF UNUSED MEDICINAL PRODUCTS 

OR WASTE MATERIALS DERIVED FROM SUCH MEDICINAL PRODUCTS, IF 

APPROPRIATE 

 

 

11. NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 

 

Novartis Europharm Limited 

 

 

12. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S) 

 

EU/1/19/1414/001 

 

 

13. BATCH NUMBER 

 

Lot 

 

 

14. GENERAL CLASSIFICATION FOR SUPPLY 

 

 

15. INSTRUCTIONS ON USE 

 

 

16. INFORMATION IN BRAILLE 

 

 

17. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER – 2D BARCODE 

 

 

18. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER - HUMAN READABLE DATA 

 

  



39 

 

MINIMUM PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON BLISTERS OR STRIPS 

 

BLISTERS (packs of 84 and 120 film-coated tablets of 0.25 mg) 

 

 

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 

 

Mayzent 0.25 mg film-coated tablets 

siponimod 

 

 

2. NAME OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 

 

Novartis Europharm Limited 

 

 

3. EXPIRY DATE 

 

EXP 

 

 

4. BATCH NUMBER 

 

Lot 

 

 

5. OTHER 

 

  



40 

 

PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON THE OUTER PACKAGING 

 

CARTON OF UNIT PACK 

 

 

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 

 

Mayzent 2 mg film-coated tablets 

siponimod 

 

 

2. STATEMENT OF ACTIVE SUBSTANCE(S) 

 

Each tablet contains 2 mg siponimod (as fumaric acid). 

 

 

3. LIST OF EXCIPIENTS 

 

Contains lactose and soya lecithin. See leaflet for further information. 

 

 

4. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM AND CONTENTS 

 

Film-coated tablet 

 

14 film-coated tablets 

28 film-coated tablets 

98 film-coated tablets 

 

 

5. METHOD AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION 

 

Read the package leaflet before use. 

Oral use 

 

 

6. SPECIAL WARNING THAT THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT MUST BE STORED OUT 

OF THE SIGHT AND REACH OF CHILDREN 

 

Keep out of the sight and reach of children. 

 

 

7. OTHER SPECIAL WARNING(S), IF NECESSARY 

 

 

8. EXPIRY DATE 

 

EXP 

 

 

9. SPECIAL STORAGE CONDITIONS 

 

Do not store above 25°C. 

 



41 

 

10. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR DISPOSAL OF UNUSED MEDICINAL PRODUCTS 

OR WASTE MATERIALS DERIVED FROM SUCH MEDICINAL PRODUCTS, IF 

APPROPRIATE 

 

 

11. NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 

 

Novartis Europharm Limited 

Vista Building 

Elm Park, Merrion Road 

Dublin 4 

Ireland 

 

 

12. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S) 

 

EU/1/19/1414/003 28 film-coated tablets 

EU/1/19/1414/005 14 film-coated tablets 

EU/1/19/1414/006 98 film-coated tablets 

 

 

13. BATCH NUMBER 

 

Lot 

 

 

14. GENERAL CLASSIFICATION FOR SUPPLY 

 

 

15. INSTRUCTIONS ON USE 

 

 

16. INFORMATION IN BRAILLE 

 

Mayzent 2 mg 

 

 

17. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER – 2D BARCODE 

 

2D barcode carrying the unique identifier included. 

 

 

18. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER - HUMAN READABLE DATA 

 

PC 

SN 
NN 

  



42 

 

MINIMUM PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON BLISTERS OR STRIPS 

 

BLISTERS 

 

 

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 

 

Mayzent 2 mg film-coated tablets 

siponimod 

 

 

2. NAME OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 

 

Novartis Europharm Limited 

 

 

3. EXPIRY DATE 

 

EXP 

 

 

4. BATCH NUMBER 

 

Lot 

 

 

5. OTHER 

 

Mon. 

Tue. 

Wed. 

Thu. 

Fri. 

Sat. 

Sun. 

Mon. 

Tue. 

Wed. 

Thu. 

Fri. 

Sat. 

Sun. 

  



43 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

B. PACKAGE LEAFLET 



44 

Package leaflet: Information for the patient 
 

Mayzent 0.25 mg film-coated tablets 

Mayzent 2 mg film-coated tablets 

siponimod 

 

This medicine is subject to additional monitoring. This will allow quick identification of new 

safety information. You can help by reporting any side effects you may get. See the end of section 4 

for how to report side effects. 

 

Read all of this leaflet carefully before you start taking this medicine because it contains 

important information for you. 
- Keep this leaflet. You may need to read it again. 
- If you have any further questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. 
- This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not pass it on to others. It may harm them, 

even if their signs of illness are the same as yours. 

- If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side 
effects not listed in this leaflet. See section 4. 

 

What is in this leaflet 

 

1. What Mayzent is and what it is used for 

2. What you need to know before you take Mayzent 

3. How to take Mayzent 

4. Possible side effects 

5. How to store Mayzent 

6. Contents of the pack and other information 

 

 

1. What Mayzent is and what it is used for 

 

What Mayzent is 

Mayzent contains the active substance siponimod. Siponimod belongs to a group of medicines called 

sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulators. 

 

What Mayzent is used for 

Mayzent is used to treat adults with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) with active 

disease. Active disease in SPMS is when there are still relapses or when MRI (magnetic resonance 

imaging) results show signs of inflammation. 

 

How Mayzent works 

Mayzent helps to protect the central nervous system (CNS) from attacks by the body’s own immune 

system. It does this by: 

- making some white blood cells (called lymphocytes) less able to move freely within the body, 
and 

- stopping these cells from reaching the brain and spinal cord. 
This reduces nerve damage caused by SPMS and as a result Mayzent helps to slow down the effects of 

the disease activity (such as worsening disability, brain lesions and relapses). 

 

 

  



45 

2. What you need to know before you take Mayzent 

 

Do not take Mayzent 
- if you are allergic to siponimod, peanut, soya or any of the other ingredients of this medicine 

(listed in section 6). 

- if you have an immunodeficiency syndrome. 
- if you have ever had progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy or cryptococcal meningitis. 
- if you have an active cancer. 
- if you have severe liver problems. 
- if, in the last 6 months, you have had a heart attack, unstable angina, stroke or certain types of 

heart failure. 

- if you have certain types of irregular or abnormal heartbeat (arrhythmia) and you do not have a 
pacemaker. 

- if blood tests show that your body cannot break down this medicine well enough, you should 
not take it (see “Blood tests before and during treatment” below). 

- if you are pregnant or could become pregnant and are not using effective contraception. 
 

Warnings and precautions 

Talk to your doctor before taking Mayzent: 

 if you have an infection or if your immune system does not work properly (for example due to a 
disease or to medicines that suppress the immune system; see also “Other medicines and 

Mayzent”). 

 if you have never had chickenpox and have not been vaccinated against it. You may be at 
greater risk of complications if you develop chickenpox during Mayzent treatment. Your doctor 

may want to vaccinate you against chickenpox before you start treatment. 

 if you are planning to have any vaccinations. Your doctor will advise you on this (see “Other 
medicines and Mayzent”). 

 if you have ever had, or have, difficulties with your vision (in particular a condition called 
macular oedema) or an infection or inflammation of the eye (uveitis). Your doctor may want 

you to have eye examinations before you start treatment and regularly while you are on 

treatment. Mayzent can cause a swelling in the macula (the area of the eye that enables you to 

see shapes, colours and details) known as macular oedema. Your chance of developing macular 

oedema is higher if you have had it before or if you have ever had uveitis (an inflammation of 

the eye). 

 if you have diabetes. The chance of developing macular oedema (see above) is higher in patients 
with diabetes. 

 if you have ever had any of the following conditions (even if you are receiving treatment for 
them): severe heart disease, irregular or abnormal heartbeat (arrhythmia), stroke or other disease 

related to the blood vessels in the brain, a slow heart rate, fainting, disturbance of heart rhythm 

(indicated by abnormal ECG results). 

 if you have severe breathing problems when sleeping (sleep apnoea). 

 if you have high blood pressure that cannot be controlled by medicines. Your blood pressure 
will need to be checked regularly. 

 if you have ever had liver problems. Your doctor may want to perform blood tests to check your 
liver function before prescribing Mayzent. 

 if you could become pregnant, because siponimod can harm the unborn baby when used during 
pregnancy. Before you start treatment, your doctor will explain the risk and ask you to do a 

pregnancy test to ensure that you are not pregnant. You must use effective contraception during 

treatment and up to 10 days after stopping treatment (see “Pregnancy, breast-feeding and 

fertility”). 

If any of the above applies to you, tell your doctor before taking Mayzent. 

 

  



46 

Look out for the following while taking Mayzent 

If you get any of the following while taking Mayzent, tell your doctor immediately because it could 

be serious: 

 if you have an infection. Mayzent lowers the number of white cells in your blood. White blood 
cells fight infection, so you may get infections more easily while you are taking Mayzent (and 

up to 3 to 4 weeks after you stop taking it). These could be serious and possibly even 

life-threatening. 

 if you think your MS is getting worse or if you notice any new or unusual symptoms. A very 
rare brain infection called progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) can cause 

symptoms similar to SPMS. It can occur in patients taking medicines like Mayzent and other 

medicines used for treating MS. 

 if you have fever, feel like you have flu or have a headache together with a stiff neck, sensitivity 
to light, nausea or confusion. These may be symptoms of a type of meningitis caused by a 

fungal infection (cryptococcal meningitis). 

 if you have changes in your vision, for example if the centre of your vision becomes blurred or 
has shadows, a blind spot develops in the centre of your vision, or you have problems seeing 

colours or fine detail. These may be symptoms of macular oedema. You may not notice any 

symptoms in the early stages of macular oedema, and it can cause some of the same visual 

symptoms as an MS attack (optic neuritis). Your doctor may want you to have an eye 

examination 3 or 4 months after starting treatment and possibly again later. If macular oedema 

is confirmed, your doctor may advise you to stop Mayzent treatment. 

 if you have symptoms such as sudden onset of severe headache, confusion, seizures and vision 
changes. These may be symptoms of a condition called posterior reversible encephalopathy 

syndrome (PRES). 

 if you have symptoms such as unexplained nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, tiredness, 
yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes or abnormally dark urine. These may be symptoms 

of liver problems. 

 

Slow heart rate (bradycardia) and irregular heartbeat 

During the first days of treatment, Mayzent can cause the heart rate to slow down (bradycardia). You 

may not feel anything or you may feel dizzy or tired. It may also cause your heartbeat to become 

irregular at the beginning of treatment. If anything indicates that you may be at higher risk of suffering 

from these effects, your doctor may decide to monitor you more closely at the start of treatment, refer 

you first to a heart specialist (cardiologist), or choose not to give you Mayzent. 

 

Tests before and during treatment 

How quickly this medicine is broken down (metabolised) in the body varies from patient to patient and 

different people therefore require different doses. Your doctor will perform a blood or saliva test 

before you start treatment to determine which dose is best for you. In rare cases, the test result may 

indicate that you should not take Mayzent. 

 

Your blood may also be tested before the start of treatment and periodically during treatment to check 

the white blood cell count. Your doctor may need to stop or reduce your Mayzent dose if the white 

blood cell count is too low. 

 

Before the start of treatment your blood will also be tested to check how well your liver is working. 

 

Exposure to the sun and protection against the sun 

Mayzent weakens your immune system. This may increase your risk of developing skin cancer. You 

should limit your exposure to the sun and UV rays by: 

 wearing appropriate protective clothing. 

 regularly applying sunscreen with a high degree of UV protection. 
 

  



47 

Worsening of MS after stopping Mayzent treatment 

Do not stop taking Mayzent or change your dose without talking to your doctor first. 

 

Tell your doctor straight away if you think your MS worsens after you have stopped treatment with 

Mayzent (see “If you stop taking Mayzent” in section 3). 

 

Elderly patients (65 years of age and above) 

There is no experience with Mayzent in elderly patients. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns. 

 

Children and adolescents 

Do not give this medicine to children and adolescents below 18 years of age because it has not yet 

been studied in this age group. 

 

Other medicines and Mayzent 
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other 

medicines. Make sure to tell your doctor if you are taking or receiving any of the following medicines 

or therapies: 

 medicines for an irregular heartbeat, such as amiodarone, procainamide, quinidine or sotalol. 
Your doctor may decide not to prescribe Mayzent because it could intensify the effect on 

irregular heartbeat. 

 medicines that slow down the heartbeat, such as diltiazem or verapamil (which belong to a 
group of medicines called calcium channel blockers), digoxin or ivabradine. Your doctor may 

refer you to a heart specialist, as your medicines may need to be changed because Mayzent may 

also slow down your heartbeat in the first days of treatment. If you are taking a beta blocker, 

such as atenolol or propranolol, your doctor may ask you to temporarily stop your beta-blocker 

treatment until you have reached your full daily dose of Mayzent. 

 medicines that affect the immune system, such as chemotherapy, immunosuppressants or other 
medicines to treat MS. Your doctor may ask you to stop taking these to avoid an increased 

effect on the immune system. 

 vaccines. If you need to have a vaccination, talk to your doctor first. During and for up to 
4 weeks after stopping treatment with Mayzent, you should not be given certain types of 

vaccine (called live attenuated vaccines) as they could trigger the infection that they were 

supposed to prevent (see section 2). 

 fluconazole and certain other medicines can increase the levels of Mayzent in the blood and are 

not recommended to be taken in combination with Mayzent. Your doctor will advise you on 

this. 

 carbamazepine and certain other medicines can lower the levels of Mayzent in your blood and 
can therefore stop it from working properly. Your doctor will advise you on this. 

 modafinil and certain other medicines can lower the levels of Mayzent in the blood of certain 
patients and can therefore stop it from working properly. Your doctor will advise you on this if 

this is relevant for you. 

 phototherapy with UV radiation or PUVA photochemotherapy. UV therapy during Mayzent 
treatment may increase your risk of developing skin cancer. 

 

Pregnancy, breast-feeding and fertility 

If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask 

your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking any medicine. 

 

Do not use Mayzent during pregnancy, if you are trying to become pregnant or if you are a woman 

who could become pregnant and you are not using effective contraception. If Mayzent is used during 

pregnancy, there is a risk of harm to the unborn baby. If you are a woman who could become 

pregnant, your doctor will inform you about this risk before you start treatment with Mayzent and will 

ask you to do a pregnancy test in order to ensure that you are not pregnant. You must use effective 

contraception while taking Mayzent and for at least 10 days after you stop taking it to avoid becoming 

pregnant. Ask your doctor about reliable methods of contraception. 

 



48 

If you do become pregnant while taking Mayzent, tell your doctor straight away. Your doctor will 

decide to stop treatment (see “If you stop taking Mayzent” in section 3). Specialised pre-natal 

monitoring will be performed. 

 

You should not breast-feed while you are taking Mayzent. Mayzent may pass into breast milk and 

there is a risk of serious side effects for the baby. 

 

Driving and using machines 
Your doctor will tell you whether your illness allows you to drive vehicles and use machines safely. 

Mayzent is not expected to affect your ability to drive and use machines when you are on your regular 

treatment dose. At the start of treatment you may occasionally feel dizzy. On your first day of 

treatment with Mayzent, therefore, you should not drive or use machines. 

 

Mayzent contains lactose and soya lecithin 

If you have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars, contact your doctor 

before taking this medicine. 

 

If you are allergic to peanut or soya, do not use this medicine. 

 

 

3. How to take Mayzent 

 

Treatment with Mayzent will be overseen by a doctor who is experienced in the treatment of MS. 

 

Always take this medicine exactly as your doctor has told you. Check with your doctor if you are not 

sure. 

 

How much Mayzent to take 

Starting treatment 

You will be given a titration pack, with which your dose will be gradually increased over 5 days. 

Follow the instructions on the pack (see also the “Titration pack” table). 

 

The purpose of the titration phase is to reduce the risk of side effects on your heart at the start of 

treatment. Your doctor may monitor you closely at the start of treatment if you are at risk of your 

heartbeat becoming slower or irregular. 

 

Titration pack 

 

Day Dose Number of Mayzent 0.25 mg 

tablets to take 

Day 1 0.25 mg 1 tablet 

Day 2 0.25 mg 1 tablet 

Day 3 0.5 mg 2 tablets 

Day 4 0.75 mg 3 tablets 

Day 5 1.25 mg 5 tablets 

 

On day 6, you will switch to your regular treatment dose. 

 

On the first 6 days of treatment, it is recommended that you take the tablets in the morning with or 

without food. 

 

  



49 

Treatment dose 
The recommended dose is 2 mg once daily (one tablet of 2 mg Mayzent) with or without food. 

 

Your doctor may instruct you to take only 1 mg once daily (four 0.25 mg tablets) if the blood test 

performed before the start of treatment showed that your body breaks down Mayzent slowly (see 

“Tests before and during treatment”). If this applies to you, note that it is nevertheless safe for you to 

take five 0.25 mg tablets on day 5 of the titration period as indicated above. 

 

Mayzent is for oral use. Take the tablet with water. 

 

If you take more Mayzent than you should 
If you have taken too many Mayzent tablets, or if you take your first tablet from the treatment dose 

pack instead of the titration pack by mistake, call your doctor straight away. Your doctor may decide 

to keep you under observation. 

 

If you forget to take Mayzent 
During the first 6 days of treatment, if you have forgotten to take your dose on one day, call your 

doctor before you take the next dose. Your doctor will need to prescribe a new titration pack. You will 

have to restart at day 1. 

 

If you miss a dose when you are on the regular treatment dose (day 7 onwards), take it as soon as you 

remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue as usual. Do not 

take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose. If you forget to take Mayzent for 4 or more days in 

a row, call your doctor before you take the next dose. Your doctor will need to prescribe a new 

titration pack and you will have to restart treatment at day 1. 

 

If you stop taking Mayzent 

Do not stop taking Mayzent or change your dose without talking to your doctor first. 

 

Mayzent will stay in your body for up to 10 days after you stop taking it. Your white blood cell 

(lymphocyte) count may remain low for up to 3 to 4 weeks after you stop taking Mayzent. The side 

effects described in this leaflet may still occur during this period (see “Possible side effects” in 

section 4). 

 

If you have to restart Mayzent more than 4 days after you stopped taking it, your doctor will prescribe 

a new titration pack and you will have to restart treatment at day 1 again. 

 

Tell your doctor straight away if you think your MS worsens after you have stopped treatment with 

Mayzent. 

 

If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist. 

 

 

  



50 

4. Possible side effects 
 

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. 

 

Some side effects could be serious 

Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people) 

 Rash with small fluid-filled blisters, appearing on reddened skin (symptoms of a viral infection 
called herpes zoster that can be severe) 

 Fever, sore throat and/or mouth ulcers due to infection (lymphopenia) 

 Convulsions, fits 

 Visual disturbances such as a shadow or a blind spot in the centre of vision, blurred vision, 
problems seeing colours or details (symptoms of macular oedema, which is a swelling in the 

macular area of the retina at the back of the eye) 

 Irregular heartbeat (atrioventricular block) 

 Slow heartbeat (bradycardia) 
If you get any of these, tell your doctor straight away. 

 

Not known (frequency cannot be estimated from the available data) 

 Cryptococcal infections (a type of fungal infection), including cryptococcal meningitis with 
symptoms such as headache together with stiff neck, sensitivity to light, feeling sick (nausea) or 

confusion. 

 

Other possible side effects 

Other side effects include those listed below. If any of these side effects becomes severe, tell your 

doctor or pharmacist. 

 

Very common (may affect more than 1 in 10 people) 

 headache 

 high blood pressure (hypertension), sometimes with symptoms such as headache and dizziness 

 blood test results showing increased liver enzyme levels 
 

Common (may affect up to 1 in every 10 people) 

 new moles 

 dizziness 

 involuntary shaking of the body (tremor) 

 diarrhoea 

 feeling sick (nausea) 

 pain in hands or feet 

 swollen hands, ankles, legs or feet (peripheral oedema) 

 weakness (asthenia) 

 lung function test results showing decreased function 
 

Reporting of side effects 

If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects 

not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the national reporting system 

listed in Appendix V. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of 

this medicine. 

 

 

  



51 

5. How to store Mayzent 

 

Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children. 

 

Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the carton/blister foil after “EXP”. 

The expiry date refers to the last day of that month. 

 

Do not store above 25°C. 

 

Do not use this medicine if you notice that the pack is damaged or shows signs of tampering. 

 

Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to 

throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help protect the environment. 

 

 

6. Contents of the pack and other information 
 

What Mayzent contains 

 The active substance is siponimod. 
 

Mayzent 0.25 mg film-coated tablets 

 Each tablet contains 0.25 mg siponimod (as siponimod fumaric acid). 

 The other ingredients are: 
Tablet core: Lactose monohydrate (see “Mayzent contains lactose”), microcrystalline cellulose, 

crospovidone, glycerol dibehenate, colloidal anhydrous silica. 

Tablet coating: Polyvinyl alcohol, titanium dioxide (E171), red iron oxide (E172), black iron 

oxide (E172), talc, soya lecithin, xanthan gum. 

 

Mayzent 2 mg film-coated tablets 

 Each tablet contains 2 mg siponimod (as siponimod fumaric acid). 

 The other ingredients are: 
Tablet core: Lactose monohydrate (see “Mayzent contains lactose”), microcrystalline cellulose, 

crospovidone, glycerol dibehenate, colloidal anhydrous silica. 

Tablet coating: Polyvinyl alcohol, titanium dioxide (E171), yellow iron oxide (E172), red iron 

oxide (E172), talc, soya lecithin, xanthan gum. 

 

What Mayzent looks like and contents of the pack 

Mayzent 0.25 mg film-coated tablets are pale red, round film-coated tablets with the company logo on 

one side and “T” on the other side. 
 

Mayzent 2 mg film-coated tablets are pale yellow, round film-coated tablets with the company logo on 

one side and “II” on the other side. 
 

Mayzent 0.25 mg film-coated tablets are available in the following pack sizes: 

 Titration pack as wallet containing 12 tablets, and 

 Packs containing 84 or 120 tablets 
 

Mayzent 2 mg film-coated tablets are available in packs containing 14, 28 or 98 tablets. 

 

Not all pack sizes may be marketed. 

 



52 

Marketing Authorisation Holder  

Novartis Europharm Limited 

Vista Building 

Elm Park, Merrion Road 

Dublin 4 

Ireland 

 

Manufacturer 

Novartis Pharma GmbH 

Roonstrasse 25 

90429 Nuremberg 

Germany 

 

For any information about this medicine, please contact the local representative of the Marketing 

Authorisation Holder: 

 

België/Belgique/Belgien 
Novartis Pharma N.V. 

Tél/Tel: +32 2 246 16 11 

 

Lietuva 

SIA Novartis Baltics Lietuvos filialas 

Tel: +370 5 269 16 50 

 

България 

Novartis Bulgaria EOOD 

Тел: +359 2 489 98 28 

 

Luxembourg/Luxemburg 

Novartis Pharma N.V. 

Tél/Tel: +32 2 246 16 11 

 

Česká republika 

Novartis s.r.o. 

Tel: +420 225 775 111 

 

Magyarország 

Novartis Hungária Kft. 

Tel.: +36 1 457 65 00 

Danmark 

Novartis Healthcare A/S 

Tlf: +45 39 16 84 00 

 

Malta 

Novartis Pharma Services Inc. 

Tel: +356 2122 2872 

Deutschland 

Novartis Pharma GmbH 

Tel: +49 911 273 0 

 

Nederland 

Novartis Pharma B.V. 

Tel: +31 88 04 52 111 

Eesti 

SIA Novartis Baltics Eesti filiaal 

Tel: +372 66 30 810 

 

Norge 

Novartis Norge AS 

Tlf: +47 23 05 20 00 

Ελλάδα 

Novartis (Hellas) A.E.B.E. 

Τηλ: +30 210 281 17 12 

 

Österreich 

Novartis Pharma GmbH 

Tel: +43 1 86 6570 

España 

Novartis Farmacéutica, S.A. 

Tel: +34 93 306 42 00 

 

Polska 

Novartis Poland Sp. z o.o. 

Tel.: +48 22 375 4888 

France 

Novartis Pharma S.A.S. 

Tél: +33 1 55 47 66 00 

 

Portugal 

Novartis Farma - Produtos Farmacêuticos, S.A. 

Tel: +351 21 000 8600 

Hrvatska 

Novartis Hrvatska d.o.o. 

Tel. +385 1 6274 220 

 

România 

Novartis Pharma Services Romania SRL 

Tel: +40 21 31299 01 



53 

Ireland 

Novartis Ireland Limited 

Tel: +353 1 260 12 55 

 

Slovenija 

Novartis Pharma Services Inc. 

Tel: +386 1 300 75 50 

Ísland 

Vistor hf. 

Sími: +354 535 7000 

 

Slovenská republika 

Novartis Slovakia s.r.o. 

Tel: +421 2 5542 5439 

 

Italia 

Novartis Farma S.p.A. 

Tel: +39 02 96 54 1 

Suomi/Finland 

Novartis Finland Oy 

Puh/Tel: +358 (0)10 6133 200 

 

Κύπρος 

Novartis Pharma Services Inc. 

Τηλ: +357 22 690 690 

 

Sverige 

Novartis Sverige AB 

Tel: +46 8 732 32 00 

 

Latvija 

SIA Novartis Baltics 

Tel: +371 67 887 070 

 

United Kingdom 

Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK Ltd. 

Tel: +44 1276 698370 

 

 

This leaflet was last revised in 

 

Other sources of information 
Detailed information on this medicine is available on the European Medicines Agency web site: 

http://www.ema.europa.eu 

 


	SUMMARY OF PRODUCT CHARACTERISTICS
	A. MANUFACTURER(S) RESPONSIBLE FOR BATCH RELEASE
	B. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS REGARDING SUPPLY AND USE
	C. OTHER CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION
	D. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS WITH REGARD TO THE SAFE AND EFFECTIVE USE OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT
	A. LABELLING
	B. PACKAGE LEAFLET