velsipity
Pharmaranks rates Velsipity 3.2/5 for recall safety — an independent score from its FDA recall history and its manufacturer's record. Velsipity (Etrasimod Arginine) is a sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulator used to treat Ulcerative Colitis.
Etrasimod Arginine · by Pfizer
Based on 1 source · Recall-safety score from FDA recall history — this product's own recalls and its manufacturer's record. Not an efficacy or quality rating. methodology →
Key facts
- Active ingredient
- Etrasimod Arginine
- Form
- Tablet
- Strength
- Etrasimod Arginine EQ 2MG Base
- Type
- Prescription (Rx)
- Brand or generic
- Brand-name
- May treat
- ulcerative colitis
- Manufacturer
- Pfizer
- FDA application
- NDA216956
What is Velsipity?
From the FDA label:VELSIPITY contains etrasimod, a sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator, supplied as etrasimod arginine. Etrasimod arginine is a white, off-white to light brown solid that is slightly soluble in water. The chemical name of etrasimod arginine is L-Arginine, (3 R )-7-[[4-cyclopentyl-3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]methoxy]-1,2,3,4-tetrahydrocyclopent[ b ]indole-3-acetate (1:1) having a molecular formula of C 32 H 40 F 3 N 5 O 5 and a molecular weight of 631.69 g/mol. The chemical structure of etrasimod arginine is: VELSIPITY is supplied for oral administration as 2 mg tablets. Each tablet contains 2 mg etrasimod (equivalent to 2.76 mg etrasimod arginine) and the following inactive ingredients: magnesium stearate, mannitol, microcrystalline cellulose, and sodium starch glycolate, with a film coating containing FD&C blue #1/brilliant blue FCF aluminum lake, FD&C blue #2/indigo carmine aluminum lake, FD&C yellow #5/tartrazine aluminum lake, macrogol 4000 JP/PEG 3350, polyvinyl alcohol (partially hydrolyzed), talc, and titanium dioxide. Chemical Structure
How to use
Assessments are required prior to initiating VELSIPITY. ( 2.1 ) • The recommended dosage is 2 mg orally once daily. ( 2.2 ) 2.1 Assessments, Medications, and Vaccinations Prior to First Dose of VELSIPITY Before initiation of treatment with VELSIPITY, assess the following: Complete Blood Count Obtain a recent (i.e., within the last 6 months or after discontinuation of prior UC therapy) complete blood count (CBC), including lymphocyte count [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. Cardiac Evaluation Obtain an electrocardiogram (ECG) to determine whether preexisting conduction abnormalities are present. In patients with certain preexisting conditions, advice from a cardiologist should be sought [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Liver Function Tests Obtain recent (i.e., within the last 6 months) transaminase and bilirubin levels [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ]. Ophthalmic Assessment Obtain a baseline evaluation of the fundus, including the macula, near the start of treatment with VELSIPITY [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ]. Skin Examination Obtain a skin examination prior to or shortly after initiation of VELSIPITY. If a suspicious skin lesion is observed, it should be promptly evaluated [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] . Current or Prior Medications • Determine if patients are taking drugs that could slow heart rate or atrioventricular (AV) conduction [see…
Side effects
The following serious adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: • Infections [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] • Bradyarrhythmia and Atrioventricular Conduction Delays [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] • Liver Injury [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] • Macular Edema [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] • Increased Blood Pressure [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] • Fetal Risk [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] • Cutaneous Malignancies [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] • Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] • Respiratory Effects [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] • Unintended Additive Immune System Effects from Prior Treatment with Immunosuppressive or Immune-Modulating Drugs [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] • Immune System Effects After Stopping VELSIPITY [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11) ] Most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥5%) are: headache, elevated liver tests, and dizziness. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Pfizer Inc. at 1-800-438-1985 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect…
Warnings
Important safety information
Infections : May increase the risk of infections. Obtain a complete blood count (CBC) before initiation of treatment. Monitor for infection during treatment and for 5 weeks after discontinuation. Consider interruption of treatment if a serious infection develops. Avoid use of live attenuated vaccines during and for up to 5 weeks after treatment. ( 5.1 ) • Bradyarrhythmia and Atrioventricular Conduction Delays : May result in a transient decrease in heart rate and AV conduction delays. Obtain an electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess for preexisting cardiac conduction abnormalities before starting treatment. Consider cardiology consultation for conduction abnormalities or concomitant use with other drugs that decrease heart rate. ( 2.1 , 5.2 , 7 ) • Liver Injury : Elevations of aminotransferases may occur. Obtain transaminase and bilirubin levels before initiating VELSIPITY. Discontinue if significant liver injury is confirmed. ( 2.1 , 5.3 ) • Macular Edema : May increase the risk of macular edema. Obtain a baseline evaluation of the fundus, including the macula, near the start of treatment with VELSIPITY. Periodically conduct an evaluation of the fundus, including the macula, while on therapy and any time there is a change in vision. Consider discontinuing VELSIPITY if macular edema develops. ( 2.1 , 5.4 ) • Increased Blood Pressure : Monitor blood pressure during treatment. ( 5.5 ) • Fetal Risk : May cause fetal harm. Advise females of reproductive potential of the potential risk to a fetus and to use effective contraception during treatment and for one week after stopping VELSIPITY. ( 5.6 , 8.3 ) • Cutaneous Malignancies : Obtain a skin examination prior to or shortly after the start of treatment and periodically during treatment, especially if risk factors. Promptly evaluate suspicious skin lesions. ( 2.1 , 5.7 ) • Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES) : If symptoms develop, obtain a physical and neurological exam, and consider MRI. ( 5.8 ) • Respiratory Effects : May cause a decline in pulmonary function. Assess pulmonary function (e.g., spirometry) if clinically indicated. ( 5.9 ) • Unintended Additive Immune System Effects from Prior Treatment with Immunosuppressive or Immune-Modulating Drugs : Consider the half-life and mode of action of prior therapies. ( 5.10 ) • Immune System Effects After Stopping VELSIPITY : If using concomitant immunosuppressants, monitor patients for infectious complications for up to 5 weeks after the last dose of VELSIPITY. ( 5.11 ) 5.1 Infections Risk of Infections VELSIPITY causes a mean reduction in peripheral blood lymphocyte count to approximately 45% of baseline values at Week 52 because of reversible sequestration of lymphocytes in lymphoid tissues [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2) ]. VELSIPITY may, therefore, increase the susceptibility to infections. Life-threatening and rare fatal infections have been reported in association with other sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulators. Before initiating treatment, obtain a recent (i.e., within 6 months or after discontinuation of prior UC therapy) CBC, including lymphocyte count. Delay initiation of VELSIPITY in patients with an active infection until the infection is resolved. In UC-1, the overall rate of infections in subjects treated with VELSIPITY was 24.9% compared to 22.2% in subjects who received placebo. In pooled data from UC-2 and UC-3, the overall rate of infections in subjects treated with VELSIPITY was 14.0% compared to 11.8% in subjects who received placebo. The most common infections were urinary tract infections and herpes viral infections in UC-1, and urinary tract infections in UC-2 and UC-3 [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] . The proportion of subjects treated with VELSIPITY who experienced lymphocyte counts less than 0.2 x 10 9 /L was 5.5% in UC-1 and 0.6% in UC-2 and UC-3. These events did not lead to treatment discontinuation. Peripheral blood absolute lymphocyte counts returned to the normal range in 90% of subjects within 4 to 5 weeks of stopping therapy [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2) ]. Consider interruption of treatment with VELSIPITY if a patient develops a serious infection. Because residual pharmacodynamic effects, such as lowering effects on peripheral lymphocyte count, may persist up to 5 weeks after discontinuation of VELSIPITY, vigilance for infection should be continued throughout this period. Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is an opportunistic viral infection of the brain caused by the JC virus (JCV) that typically occurs in patients who are immunocompromised, and that usually leads to death or severe disability. Typical symptoms associated with PML are diverse, progress over days to weeks, and include progressive weakness on one side of the body or clumsiness of limbs, disturbance of vision, and changes in thinking, memory, and orientation leading to confusion and personality changes. PML has been reported in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients treated with S1P receptor modulators and has been associated with some risk factors (e.g., immunocompromised patients, polytherapy with immunosuppressants, and duration of use). Based on data from patients with MS, longer treatment duration increases the risk of PML in patients treated with S1P receptor modulators, and the majority of PML cases have occurred in patients treated with S1P receptor modulators for at least 18 months. VELSIPITY is not indicated for the treatment of MS. Physicians should be vigilant for clinical symptoms or unexplained neurologic findings that may be suggestive of PML. MRI findings may be apparent before clinical signs or symptoms. If PML is suspected, treatment with VELSIPITY should be suspended until PML has been excluded by an appropriate diagnostic evaluation. If PML is confirmed, discontinue treatment with VELSIPITY. Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) has been reported in MS patients treated with S1P receptor modulators who developed PML and subsequently discontinued treatment. IRIS presents as a clinical decline in the patient’s condition that may be rapid, can lead to serious neurological complications or death, and is often associated with characteristic changes on MRI. The time to onset of IRIS in patients with PML was generally within a few months after S1P receptor modulator discontinuation. Monitoring for development of IRIS and appropriate treatment of the associated inflammation should be undertaken. Herpes Viral Infections Herpes simplex encephalitis, varicella zoster meningitis, and localized herpes viral infections have been reported with S1P receptor modulators. In UC-1, herpes zoster was reported in 0.7% of subjects treated with VELSIPITY and in none of the subjects who received placebo. Patients without a healthcare professional-confirmed history of varicella (chickenpox), or without documentation of a full course of vaccination against varicella zoster virus (VZV), should be tested for antibodies to VZV before initiating VELSIPITY (see Vaccinations ) . Cryptococcal Infection Cases of fatal cryptococcal meningitis (CM) and disseminated cryptococcal infections have been reported with S1P receptor modulators. Physicians should be vigilant for clinical symptoms or signs of CM. Patients with symptoms or signs consistent with a cryptococcal infection should undergo prompt diagnostic evaluation and treatment. VELSIPITY treatment should be suspended until a cryptococcal infection has been excluded. If CM is diagnosed, appropriate treatment should be initiated. Prior and Concomitant Treatment with Anti-neoplastic, Immune-modulating, or Non-corticosteroid Immunosuppressive Therapies VELSIPITY has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or non-corticosteroid immunosuppressive therapies. Avoid concomitant administration of these therapies with VELSIPITY and in the weeks following administration because of the risk of additive…
Who should not take Velsipity
VELSIPITY is contraindicated in patients who: • In the last 6 months, have experienced a myocardial infarction, unstable angina pectoris, stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), decompensated heart failure requiring hospitalization, or Class III or IV heart failure [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . • Have a history or presence of Mobitz type II second-degree or third-degree AV block, sick sinus syndrome, or sino-atrial block, unless the patient has a functioning pacemaker [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . • In the last 6 months, experienced myocardial infarction, unstable angina pectoris, stroke, transient ischemic attack, decompensated heart failure requiring hospitalization, or Class III or IV heart failure. ( 4 , 5.2 ) • History or presence of Mobitz type II second-degree or third-degree atrioventricular (AV) block, sick sinus syndrome, or sino-atrial block, unless the patient has a functioning pacemaker. ( 4 , 5.2 )
Interactions
Etrasimod is primarily metabolized by CYP2C8, CYP2C9, and CYP3A4. Table 3 includes drugs with clinically important drug interactions when administered concomitantly with VELSIPITY and instructions for preventing or managing them. Consult the labeling of concomitantly used drugs to obtain further information. The effect of concomitant use of VELSIPITY with a combination of separate drugs that are moderate to strong inhibitors or inducers of either CYP2C8, CYP2C9, or CYP3A4 is unknown. However, based on the information below, a similar clinically significant change in exposure cannot be ruled out when two or more metabolic pathways are affected. Table 3: Drugs That Affect VELSIPITY CYP-Mediated Metabolic Pathways Anti-Arrhythmic Drugs and QT Prolonging Drugs Clinical Impact A transient decrease in heart rate and AV conduction delays may occur when initiating VELSIPITY [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Because of the potential additive effect on heart rate, VELSIPITY may increase the risk of QT prolongation and Torsades de Pointes with concomitant use of Class Ia and Class III anti-arrhythmic drugs and QT prolonging drugs. Prevention or Management Seek the advice of a cardiologist before initiating VELSIPITY treatment with Class Ia (e.g., quinidine, procainamide), Class III anti-arrhythmic drugs (e.g., amiodarone, sotalol), or other drugs that prolong the QT interval. Beta-Blockers or Calcium Channel Blockers Clinical Impact A transient decrease in heart rate and AV conduction delays may occur when initiating VELSIPITY [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Concomitant use of VELSIPITY in patients receiving stable beta blocker treatment did not result in additive effects on heart rate reduction [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2) ] . However, the risk of additive heart rate reduction following initiation of beta blocker therapy with stable VELSIPITY treatment or concomitant use with other drugs that may decrease heart rate is unknown. Prevention or Management VELSIPITY can be initiated in patients receiving stable doses of beta blocker treatment. Seek the advice of a cardiologist before initiating a beta blocker in a patient receiving stable VELSIPITY treatment or concomitant use with other drugs that may decrease heart rate (e.g., calcium channel blockers). Anti-Neoplastic, Immune-Modulating, or Non-Corticosteroid Immunosuppressive Therapies Clinical Impact Risk of additive immune system effects with VELSIPITY VELSIPITY has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or non-corticosteroid immunosuppressive therapies. Prevention or Management Avoid concomitant administration during and in the weeks following administration of VELSIPITY. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, consider the half-life and mode of action of these drugs to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] . Moderate to Strong Inhibitors of CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 Clinical Impact Increased exposure of etrasimod was observed with concomitant use with a drug that is a moderate inhibitor of CYP2C9 and a moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4 (i.e., fluconazole) [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Prevention or Management Concomitant use with a drug that is a moderate to strong inhibitor of CYP2C9 and a moderate to strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 is not recommended. CYP2C9 Poor Metabolizers Using Moderate to Strong Inhibitors of CYP2C8 or CYP3A4 Clinical Impact Increased exposure of etrasimod in patients who are CYP2C9 poor metabolizers is expected with concomitant use of moderate to strong inhibitors of CYP2C8 or CYP3A4 [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3 , 12.5) ] . Prevention or Management Concomitant use not recommended. Rifampin Clinical Impact Concomitant use with a drug that is a combined CYP3A4 (strong), CYP2C8 (moderate) and CYP2C9 (moderate) inducer (i.e., rifampin) decreases exposure to etrasimod [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Prevention or Management Concomitant use not recommended. See full prescribing information for a list of clinically important drug interactions. ( 7 )
Drug class
How this class works, per Fingolimod - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf.
May treat (source: NIH RxClass)
Dosage forms
Tablet
The forms currently marketed in the U.S., per the FDA National Drug Code Directory.
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Frequently asked questions
- What does Velsipity treat?
- Velsipity (Etrasimod Arginine) may be used to treat ulcerative colitis, based on NIH RxClass drug-classification data (conditions a drug may treat — not a verbatim copy of the FDA-approved label). This is general reference, not medical advice.
- How does Velsipity work?
- Velsipity is a sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulator. These drugs mimic the natural lipid signal S1P and bind its receptors on immune cells called lymphocytes. This traps the lymphocytes inside the lymph nodes so fewer circulate in the blood, reducing the inflammatory attack on the nervous system or gut in diseases like multiple sclerosis.
- How is Velsipity rated?
- pharmaranks gives Velsipity a composite score of 3.2 out of 5, currently based on 1 weighted source (FDA regulatory recall-safety data weighted highest). See our methodology at /how-we-rate.
- Is there a coupon or discount for Velsipity?
- pharmaranks is an independent ratings site, not a pharmacy — we don't issue coupons or sell Velsipity. To pay less, ask your prescriber or pharmacist whether a generic equivalent exists, check the manufacturer's copay/savings card and patient-assistance program, and compare a pharmacy discount card against your insurance copay. Prices vary by pharmacy, insurance, and location, so always confirm at the counter. This is general reference, not medical or financial advice.
- Who makes Velsipity?
- Velsipity is marketed by Pfizer. You can see Pfizer's full profile, rating, and other products on pharmaranks.
- Is Velsipity a brand-name or generic drug?
- Velsipity is a brand-name product with the active ingredient Etrasimod Arginine.
- Is Velsipity available over the counter?
- No. Velsipity is a prescription (Rx) medication in the US — you need a prescription from a licensed clinician (in person or via telehealth); it isn't sold over the counter. For some conditions there are OTC alternatives — ask your pharmacist.
- What forms does Velsipity come in?
- Velsipity is currently marketed as tablet, per the FDA's National Drug Code Directory.
- What class of drug is Velsipity?
- Velsipity is classified as sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulator, per the FDA's Established Pharmacologic Class.
- Is Velsipity FDA-registered?
- Velsipity is on record with the U.S. FDA under application number NDA216956. You can verify this on its official FDA label.
- Has Velsipity been recalled by the FDA?
- Velsipity has no FDA recalls recorded under its own application in the openFDA enforcement database. Its recall-safety score reflects its manufacturer's overall recall record. This is general reference, not medical advice — check the FDA recall database for the latest alerts.
- Is Velsipity safe?
- There's no single safe-or-not verdict. pharmaranks gives Velsipity a recall-safety score of 64/100, based on its FDA recall history (no recalls under its own FDA application) — not an efficacy or side-effect rating. Review its FDA-label side effects and warnings before use, and always consult a licensed professional.
- What are the side effects of Velsipity?
- Velsipity's side effects are taken directly from its FDA label. From the label: The following serious adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: • Infections [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] • Bradyarrhythmia and Atrioventricular Conduction Delays [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] • Liver Injury [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] • Macular Edema [see… Both common and serious reactions are documented in full on this page. This is general reference from the FDA, not medical advice — always consult a professional.
Clinical content sourced from the FDA label via openFDA (U.S. FDA). View the FDA label on DailyMed → Provided for general reference only — not medical advice. Always consult a licensed professional and the current prescribing information.
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velsipity
64/100