Emerging Multiple Sclerosis Treatments

While there is no cure for multiple sclerosis (MS), the way we approach treatment has evolved along with our understanding of the disease, since the approval of the first disease-modifying therapy (DMT) nearly 30 years ago.^1,2 Today, there are 19 DMTs in the United States to treat MS.³ Having this range of available treatment options is especially critical in MS – a disease that affects each person differently with a wide range of symptoms that can evolve over time.⁴ Because of these advancements, patients and their doctors are able to consider other factors, in addition to efficacy, when choosing a treatment option, such as personal preference or lifestyle and wellness goals.^2,5

S1P Receptor Modulators: An Important Class for the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis

Since I began treating MS patients nearly three decades ago, I’ve witnessed a remarkable evolution in MS therapies—from the first-generation injectable and infusion therapies, including interferons, immunomodulators and monoclonal antibodies, which were the standard of care for many years, to more current options, including newer injectables, infusions and oral medicines, like those in the sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator class.² To me, these new treatment options are a sign that the medical community and healthcare industry are working together to advance care that addresses what’s truly important to patients, considers patients’ evolving healthcare needs, and treats the disease more holistically.

The emergence of oral S1P receptor modulators in 2010 was a major advancement in MS.² Many of my patients on infusion medications have shared that it’s challenging to commit to several hours in an infusion center to get their treatment. Now with the availability of oral medications, my patients and I often consider time and convenience as key factors when making treatment decisions. Of course, convenience never outweighs efficacy and safety, which is why S1P receptor modulators are a great option. In my experience, they offer patients proven efficacy and safety, and have become a “go-to” for MS treatment and a preferred DMT class.

Innovations in S1P Receptor Modulators

Over the last several years, the way I’ve approached the treatment of my MS patients has changed. The variety of MS therapies available allow my patients and I to discuss what’s going to be the best plan for their whole health. Newer S1P receptor modulators, like PONVORY® (ponesimod) – a once-daily, highly selective S1P receptor modulator FDA-approved to treat adults with relapsing forms of MS – show promise in maintaining the efficacy of the class, while offering potential improvements in tolerability and pharmacodynamics.^6,7

For many of my patients, when it comes to selecting the right treatment, short- and long-term goals are an important consideration. For example, PONVORY^® has a short half-life and rapid lymphocyte recovery, which may offer patients the flexibility to pause treatment if needed.^6* Needless to say, this may have the potential to impact family planning and should be considered when selecting a treatment.⁷ PONVORY^® is unique in that it leaves your body within seven days of stopping treatment, which could be an important consideration for patients looking to start a family.^6† However, while taking PONVORY^® and for up to one week after stopping treatment, patients should use effective contraception.⁶

With any MS treatment, including S1P receptor modulators, it’s important to be aware of initiation requirements. For example, certain treatments, such as PONVORY^®, do not require genetic testing and most patients do not require first-dose monitoring,^‡ which may be more convenient for patients who are starting treatment.⁶ With an array of options on the market, consult with your patients’ full healthcare team to continue reevaluating whether a current treatment strategy is still the best solution.

Importance of Treatment Options for MS Patients

With a variety of DMTs on the market, patient preference is an important factor in choosing a treatment option that fits with their lifestyle.⁵ When working with patients on their treatment plans, I recommend discussing what factors are important to them in their treatment, such as how they prefer to take their medicine, as well as short- or long-term goals, like family planning. For patients looking to begin or switch to a new treatment, it’s important for them to consult with their doctor to find the best option. Whatever the final plan, the key is for doctors and patients to continue to work together closely to help create a tailored treatment strategy that gives patients better control over their disease and meets their needs.⁸

*Severe exacerbation of disease, including disease rebound has been rarely reported after discontinuation of an S1P receptor modulator. Patients should be observed for a severe increase in disability upon POVORY^® discontinuation and appropriate treatment should be instituted, as required.

†There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of PONVORY^® in pregnant women. Advise women of childbearing potential of the need for effective contraception during treatment with PONVORY^® and for 1 week after stopping PONVORY®.

‡First-dose, 4-hour monitoring is recommended for patients with sinus bradycardia (heart rate < 55 beats per minute), first- or second-degree atrioventricular block (Mobitz type l), or a history of myocardial infarction, or heart failure occurring >6 months prior to treatment initiation and in stable condition.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

CONTRAINDICATIONS

PONVORY^® is contraindicated in patients who:

• In the last 6 months experienced myocardial infarction, unstable angina, stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), decompensated heart failure requiring hospitalization, or Class III or IV heart failure.
• Have presence of Mobitz Type II second-degree, third-degree atrioventricular (AV) block, or sick sinus syndrome, or sino-atrial block, unless patient has a functioning pacemaker.
  

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Risk of Infections

PONVORY^®causes a dose-dependent reduction in peripheral lymphocyte count to 30‑40% of baseline values because of reversible sequestration of lymphocytes in lymphoid tissues. PONVORY^®may increase the susceptibility to infections. Life-threatening and rare fatal infections have been reported in association with other sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulators. Before initiating treatment with PONVORY^®, results from a recent complete blood count including lymphocyte count should be reviewed.

Herpes Viral Infections

Cases of herpes viral infection have been reported in the development program of PONVORY^®; herpes simplex encephalitis and varicella zoster meningitis have been reported with other S1P receptor modulators. Patients without a healthcare professional confirmed history of varicella (chickenpox) or without documentation of a full course of vaccination should be tested for antibodies to VZV prior to initiating PONVORY^®.

Cryptococcal Infections

Cases of fatal cryptococcal meningitis (CM) and disseminated cryptococcal infections have been reported with other S1P receptor modulators. Physicians should be vigilant for clinical symptoms or signs of CM. Patients with symptoms or signs consistent with a cryptococcal infection should undergo prompt diagnostic evaluation and treatment. PONVORY^® treatment should be suspended until a cryptococcal infection has been excluded. If CM is diagnosed, appropriate treatment should be initiated.

Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML)

PML has been reported in patients treated with a S1P receptor modulator and other multiple sclerosis (MS) therapies and has been associated with some risk factors (e.g., immunocompromised patients, polytherapy with immunosuppressants). Physicians should be vigilant for clinical symptoms or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings that may be suggestive of PML. MRI findings may be apparent before clinical signs or symptoms. If PML is suspected, treatment with PONVORY^® should be suspended until PML has been excluded.

If PML is confirmed, treatment with PONVORY^® should be discontinued.

Prior and 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 because of the risk of additive immune system effects.

Vaccinations

Patients without a confirmed history of chickenpox or without documentation of a full course of vaccination against VZV should be tested for antibodies to VZV before initiating PONVORY^® treatment. A full course of vaccination for antibody‑negative patients with varicella vaccine is recommended prior to commencing treatment with PONVORY^®, following which initiation of treatment should be postponed for 4 weeks to allow the full effect of vaccination to occur.

No clinical data are available on the efficacy and safety of vaccinations in patients taking PONVORY^®. Vaccinations may be less effective if administered during PONVORY^® treatment. If live attenuated vaccines are required, administer at least 1 month prior to initiation of PONVORY^®. Avoid the use of live attenuated vaccines during and for 1 to 2 weeks after treatment of PONVORY^®.

Bradyarrhythmia and Atrioventricular Conduction Delays

Since initiation of PONVORY^®treatment results in a transient decrease in heart rate and atrioventricular (AV) conduction delays, an up‑titration scheme must be used to reach the maintenance dosage of PONVORY^®(20 mg).

Reduction in Heart Rate

Initiation of PONVORY^® may result in a transient decrease in heart rate. After the first titration dose of PONVORY^®, the decrease in heart rate typically begins within an hour and reaches its nadir within 2-4 hours. The heart rate typically recovers to baseline levels 4-5 hours after administration.

Atrioventricular Conduction Delays

Initiation of PONVORY^®treatment has been associated with transient atrioventricular conduction delays that follow a similar temporal pattern as the observed decrease in heart rate during dose titration. If treatment with PONVORY^®is considered, advice from a cardiologist should be sought for individuals:

• With significant QT prolongation (QTc greater than 500 msec).
• With atrial flutter/fibrillation or arrhythmia treated with Class Ia or Class III anti-arrhythmic drugs.
• With unstable ischemic heart disease, cardiac decompensated failure occurring more than 6 months prior to treatment initiation, history of cardiac arrest, cerebrovascular disease (TIA, stroke occurring more than 6 months prior to treatment initiation), or uncontrolled hypertension.
• With a history of Mobitz Type II second degree AV block or higher‑grade AV block, sick-sinus syndrome, or sino‑atrial heart block.

Obtain an ECG in all patients to determine whether preexisting conduction abnormalities are present. For patients taking other drugs that decrease heart rate, treatment with PONVORY^®should generally not be initiated without consultation from a cardiologist because of the potential effect on heart rate. In all patients, a dose titration is recommended for initiation of PONVORY^® treatment to help reduce cardiac effects.

Respiratory Effects

Dose‑dependent reductions in forced expiratory volume over 1 second (FEV1) and reductions in diffusion lung capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) were observed in PONVORY^®‑treated patients mostly occurring in the first month after treatment initiation.Spirometric evaluation of respiratory function should be performed during therapy with PONVORY^® if clinically indicated.

Liver Injury

Elevations of transaminases may occur in PONVORY^®‑treated patients. Obtain transaminase and bilirubin levels, if not recently available (i.e., within last 6 months) before initiation of PONVORY^® therapy.

Patients who develop symptoms suggestive of hepatic dysfunction, such as unexplained nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fatigue, anorexia, rash with eosinophilia, or jaundice and/or dark urine during treatment, should have hepatic enzymes checked. PONVORY^® should be discontinued if significant liver injury is confirmed.

No dosage adjustment is necessary in patients with mild hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class A). PONVORY^® is not recommended in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class B and C, respectively).

Increased Blood Pressure

PONVORY^®‑treated patients had an average increase of 2.9 mmHg in systolic blood pressure and 2.8 mmHg in diastolic blood pressure. Blood pressure should be monitored during treatment with PONVORY^® and managed appropriately.

Cutaneous Malignancies

Cases of basal cell carcinoma and other skin malignancies have been reported in patients treated with S1P receptor modulators, including PONVORY^®. Periodic skin examination is recommended for all patients, particularly those with risk factors for skin cancer. Providers and patients are advised to monitor for suspicious skin lesions. If a suspicious skin lesion is observed, it should be promptly evaluated. As usual for patients with increased risk for skin cancer, exposure to sunlight and ultraviolet light should be limited by wearing protective clothing and using a sunscreen with a high protection factor. Concomitant phototherapy with UV-B radiation or PUVA-photochemotherapy is not recommended in patients taking PONVORY®.

Fetal Risk

Based on animal studies, PONVORY^® may cause fetal harm.Because it takes approximately 1 week to eliminate PONVORY^® from the body, women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception to avoid pregnancy during and for 1 week after stopping PONVORY^® treatment.

Macular Edema

S1P receptor modulators, including PONVORY^®, have been associated with an increased risk of macular edema. An ophthalmic evaluation of the fundus, including the macula, is recommended in all patients before starting treatment and again at any time if a patient reports any change in vision while on PONVORY^® therapy. Continuation of therapy in patients with macular edema has not been evaluated.

Macular Edema in Patients with a History of Uveitis or Diabetes Mellitus

Patients with a history of uveitis and patients with diabetes mellitus are at increased risk of macular edema during therapy with S1P receptor modulators, including PONVORY^®. Therefore, these patients should have regular follow‑up examinations of the fundus, including the macula, during treatment with PONVORY^®.

Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome

Rare cases of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) have been reported in patients receiving a sphingosine 1‑phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator. Such events have not been reported for PONVORY^®‑treated patients in the development program. However, should a PONVORY^®‑treated patient develop any unexpected neurological or psychiatric symptoms/signs (e.g., cognitive deficits, behavioral changes, cortical visual disturbances, or any other neurological cortical symptoms/signs), any symptom/sign suggestive of an increase of intracranial pressure, or accelerated neurological deterioration, the physician should promptly schedule a complete physical and neurological examination and should consider an MRI. Symptoms of PRES are usually reversible but may evolve into ischemic stroke or cerebral hemorrhage. Delay in diagnosis and treatment may lead to permanent neurological sequelae. If PRES is suspected, PONVORY^® should be discontinued.

Unintended Additive Immunosuppressive Effects from Prior Treatment with Immunosuppressive or Immune-Modulating Therapies

When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half‑life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered in order to avoid unintended additive effects on the immune system while at the same time minimizing risk of disease reactivation, when initiating PONVORY^®. Initiating treatment with PONVORY^® after treatment with alemtuzumab is not recommended.

Severe Increase in Disability After Stopping PONVORY^®

Severe exacerbation of disease, including disease rebound, has been rarely reported after discontinuation of a S1P receptor modulator. The possibility of severe exacerbation of disease should be considered after stopping PONVORY^® treatment. Patients should be observed for a severe increase in disability upon PONVORY^® discontinuation and appropriate treatment should be instituted, as required.

Immune System Effects After Stopping PONVORY^®

After stopping PONVORY^® therapy, ponesimod remains in the blood for up to 1 week.

Starting other therapies during this interval will result in concomitant exposure to ponesimod. Lymphocyte counts returned to the normal range in 90% of patients within 1 week of stopping therapy, however, residual pharmacodynamics effects, such as lowering effects on peripheral lymphocyte count, may persist for 1 to 2 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 applied 1 to 2 weeks after the last dose of PONVORY^®.

OVERDOSAGE

In patients with overdosage of PONVORY^®, especially upon initiation/re-initiation of treatment, it is important to observe for signs and symptoms of bradycardia as well as AV conduction blocks, which may include overnight monitoring. Regular measurements of pulse rate and blood pressure are required, and ECGs should be performed.

There is no specific antidote to ponesimod. Neither dialysis nor plasma exchange would result in meaningful removal of ponesimod from the body. The decrease in heart rate induced by PONVORY^® can be reversed by atropine.

In the event of overdose, PONVORY^® should be discontinued, and general supportive treatment given until clinical toxicity has been diminished or resolved. It is advisable to contact a poison control center to obtain the latest recommendations for the management of an overdose.

ADVERSE REACTIONS

Most common adverse reactions (incidence at least 10%) are upper respiratory tract infection, hepatic transaminase elevation, and hypertension.

Please see full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide.

cp-214886v3

To learn more about PONVORY^®, visit ponvoryhcp.com.

This article is sponsored by Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

References

1. National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Disease-Modifying Therapies for MS. National Multiple Sclerosis Society website. Accessed February 28, 2022. https://www.nationalmssociety.org/NationalMSSociety/media/MSNationalFiles/Brochures/Brochure-The-MS-Disease-Modifying-Medications.pdf
2. Goldschmidt C, McGinley M. Advances in the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis. Neurologic Clinics. 2021;39(1):0733-8619. doi: 10.1016/j.ncl.2020.09.002
3. National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Medications. National Multiple Sclerosis Society Website. Accessed April 8, 2022. https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Treating-MS/Medications
4. National Multiple Sclerosis Society. MS Signs & Symptoms. National Multiple Sclerosis Society website. Accessed February 28, 2022. https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Symptoms-Diagnosis/MS-Symptoms
5. Rae-Grant A, et al. Practice guideline recommendations summary: Disease-modifying therapies for adults with multiple sclerosis. Neurology. 2018;90:777-788. doi:10.1212/WNL.0000000000005347
6. PONVORY^® [Prescribing Information]. Titusville, NJ: Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. April 2021.
7. Subei AM, Cohen JA. Sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulators in multiple sclerosis. CNS Drugs. 2015;29(7):565-575. doi:10.1007/s40263-015-0261-z
8. Ben-Zacharia A, Adamson M, Boyd A, et al. Impact of Shared Decision Making on Disease-Modifying Drug Adherence in Multiple Sclerosis. Int J MS Care. 2018;20(6):287-297. doi:10.7224/1537-2073.2017-070