Tecfidera: Your Questions Answered

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Tecfidera (Dimethyl Fumarate) is a prescription medication used to treat relapsing-remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS), a chronic and often disabling autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. In this blog, we’ll discuss what Tecfidera is, how it works, its side effects, and more.  

What is Tecfidera? 

Tecfidera is an oral medication that comes in capsule form. It is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of RRMS, which is characterized by flare-ups (relapses) followed by periods of remission. It is also approved in other countries, including Canada and the European Union. 

Tecfidera is taken orally, usually twice a day with food, and is available in two strengths: 120 mg and 240 mg. The medication is not a cure for MS, but it can help to reduce the frequency and severity of relapses, delay disability progression, and improve overall quality of life for some patients with relapsing MS. 

How Does Tecfidera Work? 

The exact mechanism of action of Tecfidera is not fully understood. However, it is believed to work by reducing inflammation in the central nervous system and has antioxidant properties that may help protect nerve cells from damage. Inflammation is a key factor in the development and progression of MS, and by reducing inflammation, Tecfidera may help slow down the progression of the disease. 

Tecfidera also has antioxidant properties, which may help protect nerve cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are harmful molecules that can accumulate in the body as a result of inflammation and other processes. 

What are the Side Effects of Tecfidera? 

Like all medications Tecfidera can cause side effects, including flushing, gastrointestinal symptoms, decreased white blood cell count, and liver problems. If you are considering taking this medication, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits, and be sure to report any side effects you experience. 

 The most common side effects of Tecfidera include: 

  • Flushing: Tecfidera can cause a warm, red, and itchy sensation on the skin, particularly on the face and upper body. This is known as flushing and is usually mild to moderate in intensity. Flushing typically occurs within the first month of treatment and tends to decrease over time. 
  • Gastrointestinal symptoms: Tecfidera can cause stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. These symptoms usually occur within the first few weeks of treatment and tend to improve over time. Taking Tecfidera with food may help reduce gastrointestinal symptoms. 
  • Decreased white blood cell count: Tecfidera can cause a decrease in the number of white blood cells in the body. White blood cells are important for fighting infections, so a decrease in their number can increase the risk of infections. Your doctor may monitor your blood cell counts while you are taking Tecfidera. 
  • Liver problems: Tecfidera can cause liver problems, including an increase in liver enzymes and liver inflammation. Your doctor may monitor your liver function while you are taking Tecfidera. 

Less common side effects of Tecfidera include allergic reactions, including rash, hives, and difficulty breathing; depression and suicidal thoughts; and kidney problems. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. 

 

Who Should Not Take Tecfidera? 

Tecfidera is not recommended for people with severe liver or kidney problems. It is also not recommended for people who are allergic to any of its ingredients. 

 

Is Tecfidera Okay to Take While Pregnant or Breastfeeding? 

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking Tecfidera. It is not known if this medication is safe for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. 

 

What Are The Long-Term Effects of Tecfidera?

While Tecfidera has been shown to be effective in reducing the number of relapses and slowing the progression of MS, some potential long-term effects may include: 

  • Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML): PML is a rare and potentially fatal viral infection that can affect the brain and central nervous system. There have been rare cases of PML reported in patients taking this medication. 
  • Lymphopenia: Tecfidera can cause a decrease in the number of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, in the body. This can increase the risk of infections. 
  • Liver toxicity: Rare cases of liver toxicity have been reported. Symptoms of liver toxicity may include yellowing of the skin or eyes, abdominal pain, and nausea. 
  • Flushing: Flushing, or redness and warmth of the skin, is a common side effect of Tecfidera. While this is not typically harmful, it may be uncomfortable for some patients. 
  • Gastrointestinal (GI) effects: Tecfidera may cause GI side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. 

It is important to note that not all patients will experience long-term effects from is medication, and the benefits of the medication may outweigh any potential risks. It is important for patients to discuss any concerns or potential side effects with their healthcare provider before starting treatment. 

 

Does Tecfidera Cause Hair Loss? 

Hair loss is not a known side effect of Tecfidera (Dimethyl Fumarate), a medication used to treat relapsing-remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS). While hair loss is a common concern for many individuals with MS, it is not typically associated with the use of this medication. 

However, it is possible that hair loss may occur as a result of other factors related to MS or its treatment. For example, stress, changes in hormone levels, and certain medications used to treat MS or related symptoms may contribute to hair loss. 

If a patient experiences hair loss while taking this medication it is important to discuss this with their healthcare provider. The healthcare provider may investigate other possible causes and may recommend alternative treatment options if necessary. 

 

Can Tecfidera Cause Weight Gain? 

Weight gain is not a known side effect of Tecfidera (Dimethyl Fumarate). In fact, weight loss is a more commonly reported side effect of this medication. 

However, weight gain can be a side effect of other medications used to treat MS, such as corticosteroids or certain disease-modifying therapies. Additionally, some individuals with MS may experience changes in weight due to changes in mobility, activity level, or other factors related to their condition. 

It is important for individuals with MS to maintain a healthy weight and discuss any concerns about weight changes with their healthcare provider. The healthcare provider can provide guidance on healthy eating habits and physical activity, as well as recommendations for managing any MS-related symptoms that may contribute to weight changes. 

If a patient experiences unexpected weight gain while taking any medication, it is important to discuss this with their healthcare provider. The healthcare provider may investigate other possible causes and may recommend alternative treatment options if necessary. 

 

Can Tecfidera Cause Liver Damage? 

Tecfidera (Dimethyl Fumarate) has been associated with rare cases of liver injury or liver function abnormalities. While the incidence of liver injury with this medication is low, patients should be monitored for signs of liver dysfunction during treatment. 

Liver function tests should be performed before starting treatment with Tecfidera, and periodically thereafter to monitor for any changes in liver function. Symptoms of liver dysfunction may include yellowing of the skin or eyes, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or dark urine. If any of these symptoms occur, patients should contact their healthcare provider immediately. 

In rare cases, liver injury may be severe and potentially life-threatening. Patients with a history of liver disease or those taking other medications known to be toxic to the liver may be at a higher risk of developing liver injury. 

It is important for patients to discuss any concerns about liver function or potential side effects with their healthcare provider before starting treatment with Tecfidera. The healthcare provider can provide guidance on monitoring for signs of liver dysfunction and may recommend alternative treatment options if necessary. 

Overall, while liver injury associated with Tecfidera is rare, it is important for patients to be aware of the potential risks and to work closely with their healthcare provider to monitor for any changes in liver function during treatment. 

 

How Often do You Have to Take Tecfidera? 

Tecfidera (Dimethyl Fumarate) is typically taken twice a day with food. The recommended dose is 120 mg twice daily for the first week, followed by 240 mg twice daily thereafter. 

It is important to take Tecfidera as directed by a healthcare provider, and with food to minimize the risk of side effects such as stomach upset or flushing. Patients should not crush or chew the capsules, and should swallow them whole. 

 

What should I do if I miss a dose of Tecfidera? 

If a dose is missed, patients should take the missed dose as soon as they remember, as long as it is within 12 hours of the scheduled dose. If more than 12 hours have passed since the missed dose, patients should skip the missed dose and resume their regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses of Tecfidera at the same time to make up for a missed dose. 

It is important to take Tecfidera as prescribed by your healthcare provider. If you miss several doses, it may impact the effectiveness of the medication. If you have missed multiple doses of Tecfidera, or if you are unsure what to do if you miss a dose, talk to your healthcare provider. 

It is also important to store Tecfidera properly and in accordance with the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. If you have any questions about how to take or store Tecfidera, talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist. 

Patients should not stop taking Tecfidera or change the dose without consulting their healthcare provider. It is important to continue taking Tecfidera as directed, even if symptoms improve or disappear. 

Overall, adherence to the prescribed dosing schedule is important to achieve the maximum benefit of treatment in managing MS. Patients should work closely with their healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that works best for their individual needs. 

 

Is Tecfidera a Disease-Modifying Therapy? 

Yes, Tecfidera (Dimethyl Fumarate) is one of several disease-modifying therapies (DMT) used to treat relapsing-remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS). It works by reducing inflammation in the central nervous system, which can help to slow down the progression of the disease and reduce the frequency of relapses. 

DMTs are medications that are designed to modify the underlying course of MS, by reducing inflammation, limiting damage to the nervous system, and reducing the frequency and severity of relapses. 

Tecfidera has been shown to be effective in reducing the frequency of relapses and slowing down the progression of disability in patients with RRMS. It has also been shown to reduce the number of new or active lesions seen on MRI scans. 

It is important to note that while DMTs like Tecfidera can be effective in managing MS, they are not a cure for the disease. Patients should work closely with their healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that works best for their individual needs, and to monitor for any potential side effects or changes in disease activity. 

 

Can Tecfidera be Taken with Food? 

Yes, Tecfidera (Dimethyl Fumarate) should be taken with food. Food helps to increase the absorption of the medication and can reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects such as stomach upset or flushing. 

Patients should take Tecfidera with a meal or snack that contains a moderate amount of fat. Examples of foods that may be suitable include a small serving of peanut butter, a few crackers with cheese, or a slice of toast with avocado. Patients should avoid taking Tecfidera on an empty stomach or with a high-fat meal, as this may affect the absorption of the medication. 

It is important for patients to follow the dosing instructions provided by their healthcare provider, and to take Tecfidera as directed with food. Patients should not crush or chew the capsules and should swallow them whole. 

If patients experience gastrointestinal side effects despite taking their medications with food, they should consult their healthcare provider. In some cases, it may be necessary to adjust the dose or switch to a different medication. 

Overall, taking Tecfidera with food is important to ensure the medication is properly absorbed and to minimize the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.  

 

How Does Tecfidera Compare to Other MS Medications? 

Here is a brief comparison of Tecfidera (Dimethyl Fumarate) to some other commonly used Multiple Sclerosis (MS) medications: 

  • Interferon beta: Interferon beta is a type of medication that is injected subcutaneously or intramuscularly. It works by reducing inflammation and slowing the progression of the disease. Studies have shown that Tecfidera is more effective than interferon beta in reducing the frequency of relapses and slowing down the progression of disability. 
  • Copaxone (glatiramer acetate): Copaxone is an injection medication that works by modulating the immune system and reducing inflammation. Studies have shown that Tecfidera is more effective than Copaxone in reducing the frequency of relapses and slowing down the progression of disability. 
  • Tysabri (natalizumab): Tysabri is an infusion medication that works by blocking immune cells from entering the brain and spinal cord. Studies have shown that Tysabri is more effective than Tecfidera in reducing the frequency of relapses, but there is some evidence to suggest that Tecfidera may be associated with a lower risk of serious side effects. 
  • Gilenya (fingolimod): Gilenya is a medication that is taken orally and works by reducing the number of immune cells that can enter the central nervous system. Studies have shown that Tecfidera is similarly effective to Gilenya in reducing the frequency of relapses, but there is some evidence to suggest that Gilenya may be associated with a higher risk of serious side effects. 

Overall, the choice of MS medication will depend on a variety of factors, including the patient’s individual disease characteristics, treatment goals, and preferences. Patients should work closely with their healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that works best for their individual needs. 

 

What is the cost of Tecfidera? 

The cost of Tecfidera (Dimethyl Fumarate) can vary depending on factors such as your location, insurance coverage, and the pharmacy you use.  

The cost without insurance can vary depending on the pharmacy and the dosage prescribed. To give you an idea of what your cost could be without insurance or Tecfidera copay assistance, a 90-day supply of the generic form can often run over $500. Here at QuickRx we work to make sure you are always getting the best price possible for all medications. 

However, most people with insurance will pay significantly less than this out-of-pocket cost. The cost of Tecfidera can vary widely depending on your insurance coverage, including factors such as your deductible, co-pay, and co-insurance. Some insurance plans may cover the entire cost of Tecfidera, while others may require you to pay a significant portion of the cost. 

If you have insurance and are considering Tecfidera, it is important to check with your insurance provider to determine your coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.  

Patients may be eligible for financial assistance programs that can help cover the cost of Tecfidera. Our in-house Tecfidera copay assistance team will handle everything for you with very little work on your end. If you’d like to see the copay assistance programs for which you are qualified, click the button at the bottom of this article to read more and get started on the path toward lower copays.  

Pro tip: Patients could also consider discussing generic or alternative medications with their healthcare provider. The generic for Tecfidera is called Dimethyl Fumarate. In general, patients will automatically receive the generic form of any medication when available unless their prescription dictates that they need the brand name of the written drug. This is because the generic form of any medication is similar to the brand name version in makeup and effectiveness, but at a much lower cost overall. 

Overall, the cost of Tecfidera with or without insurance can be high but there are options available, such as copay assistance programs, to help make the medication more affordable for eligible patients.  

Patients should work closely with their healthcare provider and the team at QuickRx to explore these options and find a treatment plan that works best for their individual health and financial needs. 

 

Can Tecfidera Cause Flu-Like Symptoms? 

Yes, Tecfidera (Dimethyl Fumarate) can cause flu-like symptoms in some patients, especially during the first few weeks of treatment. Flu-like symptoms may include fever, chills, body aches, fatigue, and headache. These symptoms are typically mild to moderate in severity and tend to resolve on their own within a few days to a few weeks. 

Flu-like symptoms are a common side effect of many medications used to treat Multiple Sclerosis. It is thought that these symptoms may be related to the medication’s effect on the immune system. These medications work by modulating the immune system to reduce inflammation and slow down the progression of the disease. This can cause the immune system to become more active, which may lead to flu-like symptoms. 

Patients who experience flu-like symptoms while taking this medication should talk to their healthcare provider. In some cases, the symptoms may be severe enough to require treatment with over-the-counter or prescription medication. In other cases, the healthcare provider may recommend adjusting the dosage or switching to a different medication. 

It is important for patients to talk to their healthcare provider about any side effects they experience. While flu-like symptoms are a common side effect of the medication, other more serious side effects may occur as well. By working closely with their healthcare provider, patients can help ensure that they receive safe and effective treatment for their Multiple Sclerosis. 

 

What is Tecfidera used for? 

Tecfidera (Dimethyl Fumarate) is a medication used to treat relapsing forms of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). MS is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, causing inflammation and damage to the myelin sheath that surrounds nerve fibers. This medication is thought to work by activating a pathway in the body that helps to regulate the immune system and protect against damage to the nervous system. 

Tecfidera is approved for use in adults with relapsing forms of MS, including relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) and active secondary progressive MS (SPMS). It is not recommended for use in patients with primary progressive MS (PPMS) or clinically isolated syndrome (CIS). 

It is important for patients to talk to their healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of Tecfidera and whether it is an appropriate treatment option for their individual needs. 

 

What are the side effects of Tecfidera? 

Tecfidera (Dimethyl Fumarate) is generally well-tolerated, but like any medication, it can cause side effects. Some of the most common side effects of Tecfidera include: 

  • Flushing: Tecfidera can cause flushing, or reddening of the skin, which may be accompanied by warmth, itching, or tingling. Flushing usually occurs within the first few weeks of treatment and tends to improve over time. 
  • Gastrointestinal symptoms: Tecfidera can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. These symptoms are usually mild to moderate in severity and tend to improve over time. 
  • Decreased white blood cell count: Tecfidera can cause a decrease in the number of white blood cells in the body, which can increase the risk of infections. Patients taking Tecfidera should have their blood cell count monitored regularly. 
  • Liver function abnormalities: Tecfidera can cause abnormalities in liver function tests, although this is rare. Patients taking Tecfidera should have their liver function monitored regularly. 
  • Allergic reactions: Tecfidera can cause allergic reactions in some patients, although this is rare. Signs of an allergic reaction may include hives, rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing. 

Less common side effects of Tecfidera include headache, dizziness, fatigue, and low blood pressure. In rare cases, Tecfidera can cause a serious condition called progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), which is a rare brain infection. 

It is important for patients to talk to their healthcare provider about any side effects they experience while taking Tecfidera. In some cases, the healthcare provider may recommend adjusting the dosage or switching to a different medication to minimize side effects. Patients should not stop taking Tecfidera without first talking to their healthcare provider. 

 

How long does it take for Tecfidera to work? 

The effectiveness of Tecfidera (Dimethyl Fumarate) can vary from patient to patient. Some patients may start to see an improvement in their symptoms within a few weeks of starting treatment, while others may take several months to experience the full benefits of the medication. 

Studies have shown that Tecfidera can reduce the frequency of relapses by up to 50% and slow down the progression of disability in patients with relapsing forms of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). However, it is important to note that Tecfidera is not a cure for MS and may not work for every patient. 

Patients should continue to take Tecfidera as prescribed by their healthcare provider, even if they do not notice an immediate improvement in their symptoms. It may take several months of treatment for the medication to reach its full effectiveness. Patients should also continue to have regular check-ups with their healthcare provider to monitor their progress and adjust their treatment plan as needed. 

 

Is Tecfidera an injection? 

No, Tecfidera (Dimethyl Fumarate) is not an injection. It is an oral medication that comes in the form of a capsule that is taken by mouth. Tecfidera is typically taken twice daily, with or without food. The capsules should be swallowed whole and should not be crushed or chewed. 

It is important for patients to follow the dosing instructions provided by their healthcare provider and to take Tecfidera as prescribed. Patients should not stop taking Tecfidera without first talking to their healthcare provider, as stopping the medication abruptly can increase the risk of MS relapses. 

 

How is Tecfidera taken? 

Tecfidera (Dimethyl Fumarate) is taken orally, in the form of capsules that are swallowed whole with water. While it is important to talk to your doctor and understand which course of this medication is right for you, the recommended dose of Tecfidera is usually 240 mg taken twice a day with or without food. It is important to take Tecfidera as prescribed by your healthcare provider. 

To reduce the risk of side effects such as flushing and gastrointestinal symptoms, it is recommended that patients start with a lower dose of Tecfidera and gradually increase to the full dose over the course of 7 days. Again, your doctor will lay out the course of this medication that is best for you. The typical recommended dosing schedule is as follows: 

  • Days 1-7: Take one 120 mg capsule in the morning and one 120 mg capsule in the evening, unless otherwise noted per your specific prescription. 
  • Days 8 and thereafter: Take one 240 mg capsule in the morning and one 240 mg capsule in the evening, and continue with this dose from then on unless otherwise directed by your doctor. 

While some may be nervous about making sure they’ll get the correct doses when first starting this medication, it may be helpful to know that it will often come packaged together with the 120mg doses for the first 7 days and 240mg doses for the rest of the first month. It is important to take Tecfidera as prescribed and not to miss any doses. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule should be resumed. If you have questions about missing multiple doses, please contact your healthcare provider immediately. You may also see our dedicated section in this article about what to do if a dose is missed.  

Patients should not crush or chew the Tecfidera capsules. If patients have difficulty swallowing the capsules, they can be opened and the contents can be sprinkled on a spoonful of applesauce or other soft food and swallowed immediately. The contents of the capsule should also not be crushed or chewed. 

Can Tecfidera be taken with other medications? 

Tecfidera (Dimethyl Fumarate) can be taken with certain other medications, but it is important to discuss any other medications or supplements that you are taking with your healthcare provider before starting this or any other medications. Some medications may interact with Tecfidera and affect its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects. The best way to avoid any potential interactions is to always be sure all of your prescriptions are filled at the same pharmacy. Our pharmacists are highly skilled at detecting drug interactions, but no pharmacist can detect interactions for a medication that they don’t know you are on.  

Some medications that may interact with Tecfidera include: 

  • Medications that suppress the immune system, such as Azathioprine, Cyclosporine, or Methotrexate 
  • Medications that affect the gastrointestinal system, such as proton pump inhibitors, H2 blockers, or antacids 
  • Medications that affect the liver, such as Rifampin, Carbamazepine, or Phenobarbital 
  • Medications that affect blood clotting, such as Warfarin or Aspirin. 

It is important to tell your healthcare provider and pharmacist about all medications (both prescription and over the counter!), supplements, and herbal products that you are taking, as well as any medical conditions that you have. Your healthcare provider can help determine if your prescription is safe and appropriate for you to take with your other medications. 

If you are prescribed a new medication while taking Tecfidera, be sure to discuss the potential for interactions with your healthcare provider before starting the new medication. 

 

Is Tecfidera Safe During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding? 

The safety of Tecfidera (Dimethyl Fumarate) during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well established. Tecfidera is classified as a Pregnancy Category C medication, which means that animal studies have shown potential harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. 

Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should talk to their healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of taking Tecfidera. In some cases, the potential benefits of taking Tecfidera during pregnancy may outweigh the potential risks. 

It is not known whether Tecfidera is excreted in human milk, and the potential risks to a nursing infant are not known. Women who are breastfeeding should talk to their healthcare provider about the potential risks and benefits of taking Tecfidera while breastfeeding. 

Overall, the use of this medication during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be carefully considered on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the potential risks to the fetus or nursing infant and the potential benefits to the mother. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should discuss their options with their healthcare provider. 

 

Tecfidera Takeaways:  

We hope this article has succeeded in answering all of your questions about this medication. If you need financial assistance or have more questions, please feel free to contact us at any time. We are always happy to help! Click the button below to be taken to our page about Tecfidera and how to see if you qualify for copay assistance. 

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