Tecfidera (Dimethyl fumarate) is a prescription medication used to treat symptoms of multiple sclerosis caused by the immune system accidentally attacking the brain and nerves. Tecfidera may be used alone or with other medicines. The active ingredient in Tecfidera is Dimethyl fumarate. Dimethyl fumarate belongs to the class of medications called Nrf2 activators. It works by reducing inflammation caused when the immune system attacks myelin, resulting in less damage. It also protects the nerve cells from the damage caused by chemicals released during the immune system attack.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Tecfidera from Canada, Turkey, and New Zealand manufactured by Biogen in the strength of 120 mg, 230 mg, and 240 mg tablets. The generic Dimethyl fumarate is available from India also called Sclerifuma by Sun Pharma and Canada by a different manufacturer in the strength of 120 mg and 240 mg tablets.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while taking Tecfidera. The most common side effects of Tecfidera may include the following:
- Diarrhea;
- Flushing or warmth;
- Nausea;
- Redness, burning, or itching of the skin;
- Stomach pain;
- Vomiting
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects, including:
- Appetite loss;
- Breathing difficulties;
- Dizziness;
- Flu-like symptoms including painful rash and burning pain in the lower back;
- Mouth sores;
- Sore throat;
- Swelling of face, lips, or tongue;
- Tiredness
These are not all of the side effects of Dimethyl fumarate. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not take Tecfidera if you are allergic to Dimethyl fumarate or any ingredient in Tecfidera. Before you start taking this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
- Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
- Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant;
- Are suffering from a rare brain infection called progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML);
- Have had recent immunization;
- Have liver disease;
- Have low white blood cell count;
- Have or have had infections;
- Have severe kidney disease;
- Have stomach or bowel disease
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Tecfidera and other medicines, including fumarates, natalizumab, mitoxantrone, diuretics, and drugs containing lithium. Do not take alcohol when using Tecfidera to prevent stomach inflammation. Tecfidera can be used in children and adolescents aged 13 and above. Tell your doctor immediately if you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant. You should not become pregnant while using Dimethyl fumarate. Dimethyl fumarate may harm the unborn baby. It is unknown if Tecfidera passes into breast milk. Do not breastfeed during treatment. Tecfidera is not expected to affect your ability to drive or operate machines. Use Tecfidera and all medicines exactly as prescribed by your doctor. You may take Tecfidera with or without food. Taking the medication with food may reduce some of the common side effects. Do not take a double dose if you forget or miss a dose. Keep Dimethyl fumarate out of reach and sight of children. Do not store this drug above 300C (860F). Keep the blisters in the outer carton to protect it from light.