This week the US Food and Drug Administration approved the release of fingolimod (trade name Gilenya®), the first oral medication for the treatment of remitting relapsing multiple sclerosis. Swedish Neuroscience Institute is proud to have participated in the pivotal clinical trial that led to the approval of Gilenya. Gilenya is a welcome addition to the set of medications available to patients living with MS. There are currently five injectable therapies and two intravenous therapies approved by the FDA for the treatment of MS. Although these treatments are very effective, many patients have been hoping for an oral alternative. Some patients are finding that they have “injection fatigue” or are running out of places to inject the medication. It is important to note, however, that not all patients should switch to Gilenya. Patients with stable disease should remain on their medications. Patients need to be informed of the risks associated with Gilenya, including slowed heart rate, increased blood pressure, difficulty breathing, abnormal liver function, and infection, and how these risks may apply to them. If you are wondering whether Gilenya is right for you, please ask your neurologist.
Recommended for you
Swedish hospitals are once again recognized with prestigious stroke and diabetes care awards
The American Heart Association presents the annual Get With The Guidelines awards for data-supported achievements in innovation and excellence in patient care. Learn more.
For patients with brain cancer, community action fosters vital connections
Community fundraising events support research advancements and build loving bonds of support for patients and their families. Learn more.
Focused ultrasound treatments mark the one million-patient milestone. Swedish pioneered the technology.
In 2024 alone, more than 150,000 patients received focused ultrasound treatments. Providence Swedish is home to the Northwest’s premier program. Watch the video to learn more.
Memory: How it works and how to preserve it
A neuropsychologist at Swedish explains how memory works and shares tips on improving retention through focused attention and awareness.
Can a shingles vaccine protect your brain?
In a recent study, a shingles vaccine showed promise in staving off dementia. A Providence Swedish expert explains.
New study: A baby on board brings significant brain changes for mom.
A recent study sheds new light on the link between brain changes during pregnancy and postpartum depression.
"It's amazing. Everything was easier." Learn more about life-changing essential tremor treatment at Swedish.
These remarkable women bonded over their struggle with essential tremor. They chose different paths for treatment. Watch the video to learn more about movement disorder treatment at Swedish.
Attend our Healthy Aging Summit to learn more about brain health at any age
Join us for this free event on April 18 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Mercer Island Community and Event Center. Registration is required. Learn more.
For one young patient, spinal surgery offered a second chance at health
Hudson Bangart was overtaken by dizziness and difficulty walking. A quick diagnosis and surgery for a rare brain and skull malformation got him up and moving again.
The Swedish MS Center: New leadership committed to our tradition of visionary care
Pavle Repovic, M.D., Ph.D., has dedicated his career to caring for MS patients and slowing the disease’s progress. Learn more about Dr. Repovic’s vision for the country’s best MS Center.
Research at Swedish is saving lives. Your support will help it continue.
Collaboration, innovation and commitment to our patients drive the development of revolutionary medicine. Philanthropy helps make it possible.
What is deep brain stimulation?
A Providence Swedish neurosurgeon answers common questions about this procedure and how it's used to treat Parkinson’s disease and other movement conditions. Learn more.
Hope’s next chapter: three sisters continue their remarkable focused ultrasound journey
Essential tremor runs in their family. Providence Swedish neuroscience experts provided life-changing care. Watch the video at the end of the blog to learn more.
Could pregnancy brain be a superpower?
The term “baby brain” fails to capture the positive neurological changes pregnant and postpartum mothers experience. New research explains.
What is a meningioma?
These tumors account for 30% of all brain and spinal cord tumors. Learn more from a Providence Swedish neurosurgeon.
Watch this video of recent online event and hear from experts and patients about how this advanced technology is changing lives.
Improve your health, improve your brain
A new report shows healthy habits improve your brain health and reduce your risk of dementia by up to 40%. A neuropsychologist shares what you should know. Watch this short video.
Providence Swedish earns national recognitions from the American Heart Association
Dedication to best practices in life-saving stroke and diabetes care garners multiple Get With The Guidelines awards.
Learn BE FAST, because every second counts during a stroke
Watch video: Learn this simple method for recognizing stroke symptoms. It may help you save a life.
Time is brain: new technology is a game-changer for patients with seizures
Swedish is the only hospital in the Puget Sound region using Ceribell, a portable device that helps speed diagnosis and treatment during neurological emergencies. Learn more.