DIMETHYL FUMARATE
Background and Date of Approval
Dimethyl fumarate is an immunosuppressant medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2013 for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS).
Uses
Dimethyl Fumarate is used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), including relapsing-remitting and active secondary progressive multiple sclerosis. It helps reduce the frequency of relapses and slows the progression of the disease.
How is it administered?
Take the Dimethyl Fumarate as advised by your physician. Do not crush, chew, or open the medicine. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. Only stop taking the capsule if your doctor advises you to stop.
Side Effects
The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with Dimethyl Fumarate are inflammation of the lining of the gut, indigestion, feeling sick, burning sensation, hot flushes, itchy skin, and pink or red skin blotches. Some serious side effects include allergic reactions, and low white blood cell count, infections.
Warnings
This drug is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to it or its component. Before initiating the treatment with Dimethyl Fumarate, your doctor will conduct essential tests to assess white blood cell counts, liver and kidney function. Periodic monitoring will continue throughout treatment to ensure your well-being. If certain conditions apply to you, such as severe kidney or liver disease, stomach or bowel issues, or a serious infection like herpes zoster (shingles). In that case, you should discuss these with your physician before taking this drug.
Precautions
Dimethyl Fumarate can be used in children and adults aged 13 years and above. Do not use this drug if you are suspected to have or have confirmed progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a rare brain infection. Your doctor shall prescribe this medicine during pregnancy only if necessary. If you are pregnant, suspecting, or planning for the pregnancy, report to your doctor before starting the treatment. It is unknown if this medicine passes into the breast milk. Please consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Word of Advice
Leukopenia, a reduction in white blood cell count, may occur as a side effect of Dimethyl Fumarate (DMF). Since white blood cells play a critical role in infection defence, patients taking this medication should adopt measures to reduce infection risk. Frequent handwashing with soap and water is recommended, particularly before meals and before touching the face. Patients should also avoid close contact with individuals who have contagious illnesses.
References
Biogen Netherlands BV; Electronic Medicines Compendium; [Revised on May 2022], [Accessed on 31 August 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.5256.pdf Biogen; US Food And Drug Administration; [Revised on March 2013] [Accessed on 31 August 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2013/204063lbl.pdf HA Blair; Dimethyl fumarate: A Review in relapsing, remitting MS; [Revised on 2019] [Accessed on 31 August 2023], https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31784875/ Jineane V Venci et al. Dimethyl fumarate (Dimethyl fumarate Capsule): A new oral agent for multiple sclerosis; [Revised on 2013] [Accessed on 31 August 2023], https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24259625/
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Dimethyl Fumarate taken?
Dimethyl Fumarate is usually orally, in the form of capsules. It is prescribed in specific doses to be taken twice daily, with or without food.
What are the common side effects of Dimethyl Fumarate?
The common side effects of Dimethyl Fumarate may include flushing, stomach upset, diarrhea, and flushing. These side effects are usually mild and tend to decrease over time.
What is Dimethyl Fumarate used to treat?
Dimethyl Fumarate is primarily used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), including relapsing-remitting MS and active secondary progressive MS. It helps to reduce the frequency and severity of MS relapses and slows down the progression of the disease.
Are there any serious side effects associated with Dimethyl Fumarate?
In some cases, serious side effects have been associated with Dimethyl Fumarate such as decreased white blood cell count and liver problems have been reported. Regular blood tests and medical check-ups are recommended to monitor for any potential complications.
Can Dimethyl Fumarate interact with other medications?
Dimethyl Fumarate can interact with certain medications. It's important to inform your physician about all the medications, supplements, and herbs you are taking to avoid interactions.