Key facts about Dimethyl Fumarate
What dosages is Dimethyl Fumarate available in?
Dimethyl Fumarate is available as a 120 mg and 240 mg delayed-release oral capsule.
What is Dimethyl Fumarate used for?
Dimethyl Fumarate is a fumaric acid derivative and is used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS).
How does Dimethyl Fumarate work?
Dimethyl Fumarate is a fumaric acid derivative. It’s not entirely clear how Dimethyl Fumarate works to treat multiple sclerosis, but it’s thought to help defend against the toxins your body makes when there’s a lot of inflammation. It works through the Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2) pathway to protect cells in your body from stress.
How do I take Dimethyl Fumarate?
Dimethyl Fumarate is typically started at 120 mg by mouth twice a day for 7 days. Then, your provider will raise your dose to 240 mg by mouth twice a day.
Is it safe for me to take Dimethyl Fumarate?
Dimethyl Fumarate is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you.
Dimethyl Fumarate Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Dimethyl Fumarate:
- Flushing
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Itchiness
- Rash
Dimethyl Fumarate Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Dimethyl Fumarate. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Liver damage: fever, feeling tired, nausea, vomiting, yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, clay-colored stool, and dark urine
- Serious infection: fever, weakness, vision changes, difficulty speaking or thinking, muscle pain
- Serious allergic reaction: trouble breathing, rash, swelling of lips or tongue
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Dimethyl Fumarate
- There are no major drug interactions listed for Dimethyl Fumarate. However, always let your physician and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking
Who makes Dimethyl Fumarate?
Various FDA-approved generic manufacturers
Is Dimethyl Fumarate safe in pregnancy?
It is not known if Dimethyl Fumarate will harm your
unborn baby. You and your doctor will have to decide if you should take Dimethyl Fumarate while you are pregnant or if you plan to become pregnant.
