FDA approves fingolimod drug for multiple sclerosis...

Fingolimod (see structure), a drug modified from a fungus  (Isaria sinclairii), a structural analogue of sphingosine and gets phosphorylated by sphingosine kinases in the cell originally found in Asian wasps, prevents autoimmune attacks by trapping white blood cells in the body's lymph nodes. Two large Phase III clinical studies published in February found that fingolimod was at least twice as effective in preventing MS attacks when compared to placebo or current treatments. 

Research on additional uses for fingolimod continues at the University of Chicago, including a new clinical trial in patients with progressive MS, for which there are no available treatments. With fingolimod adding to the recent boom of new MS therapies, and with a number of clinical trials for new therapies in progress, patients should be sure to seek out an experienced MS center for their care.

As per the claim by the lead researcher, Anthony Reder, MD, Professor of Neurology at the University of Chicago Medical Center,  fingolimod is first oral medication for multiple sclerosis was approved  by the Food & Drug Administration. He also claims that'

"We have six drugs right now, and they all involve injections. So the convenience alone of a pill is a major change in how we treat MS."

Hope people suffering from MS, (A chronic, neurologic disorder, which affects roughly 400,000 Americans and 2.5 million people around the world.  MS can cause issues with walking and movement, fatigue, weakness, pain, and loss of vision. Patients with relapsing-remitting MS suffer from intermittent and unpredictable immune system attacks that can damage the brain, spinal cord, and eyes) breathe a sigh of relief..

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