Drug Interaction Report

Before starting ponesimod, let your doctor know if you are currently receiving treatment with voclosporin. Using ponesimod in this situation can increase the risk of an irregular heart rhythm that may be serious or life-threatening. Talk to your doctor if you are uncertain whether you should be treated with these medications at the same time. Contact your doctor if you develop dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, shortness of breath, chest pain, or heart palpitations during treatment.

Combining these medications can also increase the risk of serious infections. You may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring by your doctor to safely use both medications. Because ponesimod can remain in your blood after the last dose, interactions with other drugs may occur for some time even after you have stopped taking it. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop signs and symptoms of infection such as fever, chills, diarrhea, sore throat, muscle aches, shortness of breath, blood in phlegm, weight loss, red or inflamed skin, body sores, and pain or burning during urination. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Food may delay and reduce the absorption of voclosporin, which may lead to lower blood levels of the medication and possibly reduced effectiveness. Voclosporin should be taken on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after food. This will make it easier for your body to absorb the medication. Also, while taking voclosporin, you should avoid grapefruits and grapefruit juice. Grapefruit can raise the blood levels of voclosporin in your body and lead to increased adverse effects. Do not increase or decrease the amount of grapefruit products in your diet without first talking to your doctor. Also, if you are taking voclosporin you should avoid potassium-containing salt substitutes or over-the-counter potassium supplements without first talking to your doctor. Taking voclosporin together with these salt substitutes or supplements may cause high levels of potassium in your blood. High levels of potassium can cause weakness, irregular heartbeat, confusion, tingling of the extremities, or feelings of heaviness in the legs. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these symptoms. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.