{
  "abstract": "Secondary progressive MS (SPMS) currently has limited therapeutic options. Siponimod, a sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor modulator, prevents lymphocyte migration to the CNS and has been been shown to reduce disability progression in active SPMS. However, this is not without risk and can present a range of potential side effects.This project aims to evaluate and improve the current service for patients prescribed siponimod therapy in Northern Ireland. MS database and electronic care records were used to assess baseline patient characteristics, reasons why therapy was declined or stopped, and safety monitoring in line with local guidelines.Between 09/12/20 and 11/09/24 103 patients were discussed at the disease-modifying therapy multidisciplinary team panel. 91 patients were approved for treatment. Pre-treatment screening, including genotyping, optical coherence tomography, ECG, and blood testing was performed for all patients.Key findings indicate that patients were predominantly female, with a median Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score of 6.5. The average waiting period for starting was between 1.5–2 years. Most patients have a CYP2C9 *1/*1 genotype. Over half of patients have stable MRI imaging after starting siponimod. Repeat blood monitoring was well adhered to, but improvement is needed at 3-months follow up. Skin surveillance information could also be circulated more readily. Delays are often present due to the lengthy work up required as patient numbers are likely to increase this process should be streamlined.conorchughes@outlook.com",
  "authors": [
    {
      "affiliations": [
        "Belfast City Hospital"
      ],
      "name": "Hughes Conor"
    }
  ],
  "title": "168 Siponimod use in Northern Ireland",
  "uid": "e84d3e61-b75a-5e07-9a53-98c3061bf6d8"
}