Can Gilenya cause weight gain?
Although weight gain is not reported as a side effect of Gilenya in the product information, blog posts suggest weight gain can be common with Gilenya, with some people reporting weight increases of 15 to 30 pounds.
If you notice excessive weight gain while taking Gilenya, talk with your doctor.
Weight gain can also be a common side effect of multiple sclerosis (MS), rather than due to MS treatments, because MS symptoms can make doing exercise difficult as can symptoms such as fatigue or being prescribed certain other medications, such as steroids.
References
- Gilenya reviews. Ask a Patient. https://www.askapatient.com/viewrating.asp?drug=22527&name=GILENYA
- Gilenya. (fingolimod hydrochloride) Updated 05/2022. Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation https://www.drugs.com/pro/gilenya.html
Read next
Gilenya vs Tecfidera. How do they compare?
Gilenya and Tecfidera are both disease-modifying oral medications approved for the treatment of MS. Both are equally effective although Tecfidera is more likely than Gilenya to be discontinued within 24 months. Gilenya is approved to treat adults and children aged 10 and older and Tecfidera is only approved for adults over the age of 18. Common side effects of Gilenya include heart rhythm disturbances, diarrhea, infections, and elevations in liver enzymes and common side effects of Tecfidera include flushing, gastrointestinal disturbances, and infections. Tecfidera is slightly more expensive than Gilenya. Continue reading
Can Gilenya cause high blood pressure?
In clinical studies, Gilenya (fingolimod) caused both high blood pressure (hypertension) and increases in blood pressure that were sustained with continued treatment. Tell your doctor before you start treatment if you have high blood pressure now or a history of high blood pressure. Your doctor should monitor your blood pressure while you are taking Gilenya. Continue reading
Can Gilenya cause headaches?
Yes, headaches are a common side effect with Gilenya and have been reported to occur in 10% or more of people in clinical studies. But if you have a sudden severe headache, or a headache with fever, neck stiffness, sensitivity to light, nausea, or confusion, call your doctor right away. Continue reading
Related medical questions
- Gilenya and the covid-19 vaccine, what should I know?
- What are the new drugs used for multiple sclerosis (MS)?
- How much does Gilenya cost?
- What happens when you stop taking Gilenya?
- Does Gilenya suppress the immune system?
- Where is Gilenya manufactured and by whom?
- How long does it take Gilenya to work?
- Does Gilenya cause hair loss?
- What does Gilenya do for multiple sclerosis (MS)?
Drug information
- Gilenya Information for Consumers
- Gilenya prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Gilenya (detailed)
Related support groups
- Gilenya (14 questions, 84 members)
- Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) (760 questions, 1,490 members)
- Multiple Sclerosis (96 questions, 551 members)
