From the Research
Ozanimod is an oral sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator that may be used off-label to treat hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) by reducing chronic inflammation and modulating lymphocyte trafficking. The mechanism of action of ozanimod in the treatment of HS involves binding to S1P receptors on lymphocytes, preventing them from leaving lymph nodes and entering circulation, which reduces the number of inflammatory cells that can migrate to sites of inflammation in the skin 1. In HS, ozanimod's immunomodulatory effects may help control the chronic inflammation that characterizes the disease, potentially reducing painful nodules, abscesses, and sinus tracts. The drug targets the underlying immune dysregulation in HS by modulating lymphocyte trafficking and inflammatory responses. Some key points to consider when using ozanimod for HS include:
- Ozanimod is not yet FDA-approved for HS, and treatment should be supervised by a dermatologist experienced in managing HS.
- Before starting ozanimod, patients require baseline assessments including cardiac evaluation, as the drug can cause transient heart rate decreases.
- Liver function tests and complete blood counts should also be monitored during treatment.
- The most common ozanimod-related adverse events include headache, somnolence, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue 2. It is essential to weigh the potential benefits and risks of ozanimod in the treatment of HS, considering the limited available evidence and the off-label use of the drug. Further research is needed to fully understand the efficacy and safety of ozanimod in HS treatment. However, based on the available evidence, ozanimod may be a promising treatment option for patients with HS who have not responded to other therapies 1, 2.