Dimethyl fumarate
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
undefined
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Summary
Dimethyl fumarate is used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis, which is a disease affecting the brain and spinal cord. It helps reduce the number of relapses and slows the progression of disability.
Dimethyl fumarate works by reducing inflammation and protecting nerve cells, which are the cells that transmit signals in the brain and spinal cord. This helps decrease relapses and slow disability progression in multiple sclerosis.
Dimethyl fumarate is usually taken orally as capsules, twice daily. The starting dose is 120 mg twice daily for the first week, then increased to 240 mg twice daily. Swallow the capsules whole, without crushing or chewing.
Common side effects include flushing, which is a warm, red feeling in the skin, and gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and nausea. These effects are usually mild to moderate and affect more than 10% of people taking the medication.
Dimethyl fumarate can decrease white blood cells, increasing infection risk, and may cause liver problems. Regular blood tests are needed. Avoid if allergic to it or its ingredients. Consult your doctor if you have severe liver issues before starting.
Indications and Purpose
How does Dimethyl fumarate work?
Dimethyl fumarate works by reducing inflammation and protecting nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. It belongs to a class of drugs called fumaric acid esters. Think of it like a shield that helps protect your nerves from damage. This medication decreases the number of relapses and slows the progression of disability in people with multiple sclerosis, which is a disease affecting the brain and spinal cord.
Is Dimethyl fumarate effective?
Dimethyl fumarate is effective in treating relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis, which is a disease affecting the brain and spinal cord. Clinical studies show it reduces the number of relapses and slows the progression of disability. It works by reducing inflammation and protecting nerve cells. These results support its effectiveness in managing multiple sclerosis and improving health outcomes for people with this condition.
What is Dimethyl fumarate?
Dimethyl fumarate is a medication used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis, which is a disease affecting the brain and spinal cord. It belongs to a class of drugs called fumaric acid esters. Dimethyl fumarate works by reducing inflammation and protecting nerve cells. This helps decrease the number of relapses and slows the progression of disability in people with multiple sclerosis. It is usually used as a long-term treatment.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Dimethyl fumarate?
Dimethyl fumarate is usually a long-term medication for managing relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis, which is a disease affecting the brain and spinal cord. You'll typically take dimethyl fumarate every day as a lifelong treatment unless your doctor suggests otherwise. Stopping this medication without medical advice could cause your condition to worsen. How long you'll need this medication depends on your body's response, any side effects you experience, and changes in your overall health.
How do I dispose of Dimethyl fumarate?
If you can, bring unused dimethyl fumarate to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so it doesn't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and throw it away.
How do I take Dimethyl fumarate?
Dimethyl fumarate is usually taken twice daily, with or without food. Swallow the capsules whole; do not crush or chew them. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions regarding diet and fluid intake while taking this medication.
How long does it take for Dimethyl fumarate to start working?
Dimethyl fumarate begins working in your body shortly after you take it, but you may not notice all the benefits right away. It can take several weeks to see a reduction in relapses and a slowing of disability progression. How quickly the medication works can depend on your overall health and how your body responds. Regular check-ups with your doctor are important to monitor your condition and adjust your treatment as needed.
How should I store Dimethyl fumarate?
Store dimethyl fumarate at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, to protect it from damage. Don't store your medicine in humid places like bathrooms, where moisture in the air could affect how well the medication works. Always store dimethyl fumarate out of children's reach to prevent accidental swallowing. Check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication.
What is the usual dose of Dimethyl fumarate?
The usual starting dose of dimethyl fumarate for adults is 120 mg twice daily for the first week. After that, the dose is increased to 240 mg twice daily. This medication is not typically used in children. Elderly patients may require careful monitoring. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your personal health needs.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Dimethyl fumarate be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Dimethyl fumarate is not recommended while breastfeeding. There is limited information on whether this medication passes into human breast milk. While we don't have specific reports of harm to breastfed babies, we can't rule out potential risks. If you're taking dimethyl fumarate and want to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about safer medication options that would allow you to nurse your baby safely.
Can Dimethyl fumarate be taken safely while pregnant?
Dimethyl fumarate is not recommended during pregnancy. There is limited information on its safety in pregnant women. Animal studies have shown potential risks to the developing fetus. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the safest way to manage your condition. Your doctor can help create a pregnancy-specific treatment plan that protects both you and your baby.
Does Dimethyl fumarate have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common adverse effects of dimethyl fumarate include flushing, which is a warm, red feeling in the skin, and gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea. These effects are usually mild. Serious adverse effects include a decrease in white blood cells, which can increase infection risk, and liver problems. If you notice new or worsening symptoms, contact your doctor. Regular monitoring helps manage these effects.
Does Dimethyl fumarate have any safety warnings?
Dimethyl fumarate has important safety warnings. It can cause a decrease in white blood cells, which are cells that help fight infections, increasing infection risk. It may also cause liver problems. Regular blood tests are needed to monitor these effects. If you experience symptoms like fever, chills, or yellowing of the skin, contact your doctor immediately. Adhering to these safety warnings helps prevent serious health issues.
Is Dimethyl fumarate addictive?
Dimethyl fumarate is not addictive or habit-forming. This medication doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. It works by affecting your immune system to reduce inflammation, which doesn't lead to addiction. You won't experience cravings for this medication or feel compelled to take more than prescribed. If you have concerns about medication dependence, you can feel confident that dimethyl fumarate doesn't carry this risk.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Dimethyl fumarate?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking dimethyl fumarate. Alcohol can increase the risk of liver problems, which are a potential side effect of this medication. Drinking alcohol may also worsen side effects like flushing and gastrointestinal issues. If you do choose to drink occasionally, limit how much alcohol you consume and talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking dimethyl fumarate to get personalized advice.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Dimethyl fumarate?
You can exercise while taking dimethyl fumarate, but keep a few things in mind. This medication can cause flushing and gastrointestinal issues, which might affect your comfort during exercise. To exercise safely, stay hydrated and listen to your body. If you experience any discomfort, slow down or stop exercising and rest. Most people can maintain their regular exercise routine while taking dimethyl fumarate, but check with your doctor if you have concerns.
Is it safe to stop Dimethyl fumarate?
Stopping dimethyl fumarate suddenly can cause your condition to worsen. This medication is usually used for long-term management of multiple sclerosis, which is a disease affecting the brain and spinal cord. Always talk with your doctor before stopping dimethyl fumarate. They might suggest gradually reducing your dose or switching to a different medication to keep your condition under control. Your doctor will help you make any medication changes safely.
What are the most common side effects of Dimethyl fumarate?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking a medication. Common side effects of dimethyl fumarate include flushing, which affects about 40% of people, and gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain. These effects are usually mild to moderate. If you notice new symptoms after starting dimethyl fumarate, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication.
Who should avoid taking Dimethyl fumarate?
Don't take dimethyl fumarate if you're allergic to it or its ingredients. Serious allergic reactions, which cause rash, hives, or swelling that makes breathing difficult, require immediate medical help. This medication should be used with caution in people with severe liver problems, as it may worsen liver function. Always consult your doctor about these concerns before starting dimethyl fumarate.
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