Dimethyl Fumarate
Tecfidera (dimethyl fumarate) is an oral prescription medication used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis, including clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting disease, and active secondary progressive disease. It is taken twice daily with food and works by modifying the immune response to reduce the frequency of relapses and slow the progression of disability.
Tecfidera is an oral MS medication that helps reduce relapses and slow disease progression by modulating the immune system.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1373484
- Generic
- Tecfidera
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Tecfidera is FDA-approved for the treatment of relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis, including clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), and active secondary progressive multiple sclerosis in adults.
The exact mechanism is not fully understood, but Tecfidera is believed to work by activating the Nrf2 pathway, which helps protect cells from oxidative stress and exerts immunomodulatory effects. It reduces inflammatory activity and may shift immune cell profiles away from pro-inflammatory states.
Common side effects include flushing, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea. Patients should be monitored for serious infections and liver problems. A complete blood count should be obtained before starting treatment and periodically during therapy. Tecfidera may cause lymphopenia, so patients with active infections or compromised immune function should use caution.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy