Brand name: Tecfidera/ Vumerity
Generic name: Dimethyl Fumarate/ Diroximel Fumarate
Who takes it?:
This is for adults with Active Relapsing Remitting MS, who have had 2 relapses in 2 years.
It is considered to be a first line treatment.
Studies show that is reduces relapses by 50%.
Tecfidera should not be taken in pregnancy.
How is it given?:
Tecfidera/Vumerity is an oral tablet taken twice a day: 4 hours apart.
For the first week you start on 120mg then increase to 240mg.
It should be taken with food, such as a fat and a protein (peanut butter on toast or a boiled egg on toast ect).
Who Monitors it?:
Bloods are obtained after month 1, 3 then 6 monthly. You will be informed when they are due, we will ask you either to attend your Gp practice or the MS Nurse home phlebotomy service will collect them.
The MS Nurse phlebotomy service, can come to your home environment or after negotiation with your employer, at your work place.
At each MS Nurse appointment you will be asked about your Tecfidera:
- If you have missed any tablets.
- Have any side effects.
- Had any infections.
Side effects:
Flushing and feeling warm/hot.
Stomach upset, such as: diarrhoea, nausea and griping pains.
Reduced white cells in your blood.
Increased liver enzymes.
Rash.
Travel:
This medication does not need to be kept in your hand luggage when travelling abroad, however we suggest you do, due to main luggage occasionally being lost or delayed.
Vaccines:
https://www.mssociety.org.uk/care-and-support/health-and-social-care/health-care/flu-jabs
Support:
https://mstrust.org.uk/a-z/tecfidera-dimethyl-fumarate