Dimethyl fumarate (By mouth)
Dimethyl Fumarate (dye-METH-il FUE-ma-rate)
Treats multiple sclerosis (MS).
Brand Name(s):
Tecfidera, Tecfidera Starter Pack
There may be other brand names for this medicine.When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:
This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to dimethyl fumarate.How to Use This Medicine:
Delayed Release Capsule
- Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
- You may have less skin flushing if you take this medicine with food.
- Capsule: Swallow whole. Do not crush or chew it. Do not sprinkle the contents of the capsule on food.
- Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
- Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
- Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Once you have opened a bottle, throw away any unused medicine after 90 days.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid:
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Warnings While Using This Medicine:
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have any type of infection (including herpes zoster).
- This medicine may cause the following problems:
- May increase risk for infection (including progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy)
- Liver damage
- Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
- Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
- Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
- Back pain, blurred vision, convulsions, dizziness, fever, headache, tiredness
- Change in how much or how often you urinate, lower back or side pain, painful or difficult urination
- Chest pain, trouble breathing
- Dark urine or pale stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes
- Fever or chills, cough, sore throat, body aches
- Painful blisters on trunk of the body
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
- Diarrhea
- Warmth or redness in your face, neck, arms, or upper chest
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088
Last Updated: 3/6/2023