Description
Generic Name: dimethyl fumarate
Drug Class: nuclear factor erythroid (Nrf2) activator
Tecfidera Indications
Tecfidera is an oral prescription drug used to manage patients with relapsing forms of MS or multiple sclerosis. This medication is not indicated to treat multiple sclerosis but can only lessen the number of episodes of worsening MS.
Tecfidera Dosage Forms
This is available in Tecfidera 120 mg and 240 mg delayed-release capsules.
Tecfidera Mechanism of Action
The exact mechanism of this delayed-release oral medication is still unclear. However, it is thought to work by suppressing inflammatory activity and protecting nerve cells from cell death. It can also prevent the immune system from attacking the central nervous system or CNS.
How to Take Tecfidera
Before using Tecfidera, it is necessary to read the information leaflet or medication guide given by a healthcare professional. If you do not understand how and why to take this medication, you should not take it.
Tecfidera capsule is usually prescribed twice a day and is only meant to be taken by mouth with or without a meal. If you experience flushing, take it with food. Swallow the delayed-release capsule entirely and drink fluids right after.
You should establish a dosing schedule to prevent missing doses. Do not increase or decrease your dosage. You should also not take this medication more frequently than your doctor advised.
Tecfidera Side Effects
Mild & Common Side Effects:
-Flushing or warmth
-Redness
-Temporary burning of the skin
-Itching
-Nausea
-Vomiting
-Abdominal pain
-Diarrhea
Severe Side Effects:
-Fever
-Chills
-Persistent sore throat
-Blisters
-Severe stomach pain
-Persistent nausea and vomiting
-Seizure
-Vision changes
-Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy
Note that this is not a full/complete list of the side effects of Tecfidera.
Report side effects to your doctor or health care professional if you experience severe or persistent adverse reactions.
Warnings and Precautions when using Tecfidera
Do not take this prescription drug if you have a known allergy to dimethyl fumarate, diroximel fumarate, monomethyl fumarate, or any inactive ingredients the capsule may contain. Always watch for signs of serious allergic reactions such as trouble breathing, swelling of the face and neck, severe dizziness, swollen lymph nodes, hives/itchiness, and skin rashes. Get help as soon as possible if you experience any of these.
This medication may be contraindicated for people with a history of certain medical conditions like any infection, low white blood cells, and liver disease. Due to possible drug interactions, you must discuss all the prescription and nonprescription medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
A weakened defense system can be caused by the use of dimethyl fumarate. This drug can possibly mask signs of infection or make you more likely to get an infection. Contact people with infections such as flu, chickenpox, or measles should be avoided. Additionally, patients taking this Nrf2 activator are advised not to receive immunizations or vaccinations.
Pregnant moms should take this oral medication only if needed. It is unknown if this medication can bring harm to unborn children. Whether this drug passes into breastmilk is unknown. Discuss all the possible risks with your healthcare provider.
How much does Tecfidera cost in Canada?
You may see the list of prices on this page. PharmaPassport offers the best deals on prescription drugs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Tecfidera used for?
Tecfidera (dimethyl fumarate) is an oral Nrf2 activator that suppresses the immune system. Mostly, physicians prescribe Tecfidera for MS or multiple sclerosis.
Is Vumerity the same as Tecfidera?
Vumerity vs Tecfidera – These are immunomodulators that are used to manage relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis. However, they contain different active ingredients.
How long can you stay on Tecfidera?
You may continue to take this oral drug for as long as your physician prescribes. Most patients take it for a long time, considering its clinical benefit.
Can you drink alcohol with Tecfidera?
Although there are no interactions between dimethyl fumarate and alcohol, you must limit your alcohol intake. This is because some adverse effects can be triggered by alcohol.
How long does it take for Tecfidera to start working?
It may take a while for this type of medication to start working. For most patients, it takes 24 weeks for this drug to kick in and two years to achieve the full benefits of this prescription drug.
Do you need a prescription for Tecfidera?
This is a prescription drug. You need to have a valid prescription before purchasing from any pharmacy.