Tecfidera

dimethyl fumarate

Brand(s):

• Dyfira

Manufacturer:

• Intas

Disease(s):

• Multiple Sclerosis

Tecfidera Capsules: A Comprehensive Guide

What is Tecfidera?

Tecfidera (dimethyl fumarate) is a prescription medication used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) in adults. This includes clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting disease, and active secondary progressive disease. It comes in hard gelatin delayed-release capsules, available in two strengths: 120 mg and 240 mg of dimethyl fumarate. It's important to note that the safety and efficacy of Tecfidera in children under 18 years of age haven't been established.

Important Warnings and Precautions

Before starting and during treatment with Tecfidera, inform your doctor if you have or have had low white blood cell counts or any infections. Tecfidera carries a risk of causing progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a serious and potentially fatal brain infection. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any changes in your mental state, vision loss, weakness on one side of your body, or difficulties with speech or walking. These symptoms may begin subtly and worsen rapidly.

Before Taking Tecfidera

You should not take Tecfidera if you've had a severe allergic reaction to dimethyl fumarate or diroximel fumarate (Vumerity). Before starting treatment, tell your doctor if you have or have ever had:

• An active infection
• Low white blood cell (WBC) counts

It's crucial to inform your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant. If you're pregnant, your information may be added to a pregnancy registry to monitor the effects of dimethyl fumarate on the developing fetus. Tecfidera is not approved for use in individuals under 18 years old.

How to Take Tecfidera

Always take Tecfidera as prescribed by your doctor. Strictly follow the instructions on your prescription label and medication guide. Your doctor may adjust your dosage over time. Blood tests will be necessary to monitor your condition and ensure the safe use of Tecfidera.

Tecfidera can be taken with or without food. Taking it with food may reduce the likelihood of flushing (a sudden feeling of warmth, redness, or tingling). Swallow the capsules whole; do not crush, chew, break, or open them. Regular blood tests are required during treatment. Store Tecfidera in its original container at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light.

Potential Side Effects of Tecfidera

Seek immediate medical help if you experience signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

As mentioned, Tecfidera can cause PML, a serious brain infection. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience problems with speech, thinking, vision, or muscle movement. These symptoms can start gradually and worsen quickly.

Additionally, contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

• Symptoms of herpes virus infection: flu-like symptoms, cold sores, tingling or painful blistering rash, burning pain in the thigh or lower back.
• Low white blood cell counts: fever, mouth sores, skin sores, sore throat, cough, trouble breathing.
• Liver problems: loss of appetite, upper right abdominal pain, tiredness, itching, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Common side effects include:

• Stomach pain, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
• Redness, rash, itching
• Flushing (sudden warmth, redness, or tingling)

Drug Interactions

Other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, can interact with dimethyl fumarate. Always inform your doctor about all current medications, as well as any new medications you start or stop taking.