Warnings and precautions for using dimethyl fumarate (Tecfidera)

When using dimethyl fumarate (Tecfidera) as a treatment for multiple sclerosis (Multiple Sclerosis, MS), patients need to pay close attention to their doctor's warnings and precautions to ensure safe and effective treatment. Here are some important warnings and notes that may be involved:

1. Patient selection and monitoring: Before starting Tecfidera treatment, doctors will conduct a comprehensive evaluation to ensure that the patient meets the conditions for use of the drug. This includes the patient's immune system status, past medication use, the presence of underlying infections, etc. Doctors typically ask patients to monitor their immune system regularly to ensure proper function of their immune system and to adjust their treatment plan to account for any potential adverse effects.

2. Risk of infection:The use of Tecfidera may increase the patient's risk of infection. Patients should pay attention to infection prevention measures during medication, including avoiding contact with people suffering from infectious diseases, maintaining good hygiene habits, seeking medical treatment promptly and informing the doctor that they are using Tecfidera.

3. Low lymphocyte count: Tecfidera may cause a decrease in lymphocyte count. Patients should have their blood counts checked regularly during treatment to ensure that the number of lymphocytes is within the normal range. A low lymphocyte count may increase the risk of infection, so your doctor may adjust your treatment plan or take other necessary steps.

4. Abnormal liver function:Tecfidera may cause abnormal liver function during use. During treatment, patients need to undergo regular liver function tests to ensure the liver is functioning properly. If abnormal liver function occurs, the doctor may adjust the medication regimen or take other measures to deal with it.

5. Allergic reactions: Some patients may experience allergic reactions when using Tecfidera. If patients experience drug allergy symptoms, such as rash, hives, shortness of breath, etc., they should inform their doctor immediately. Your doctor may decide whether you need to stop using Tecfidera or take other treatments.

6. Pregnancy and Lactation:The safety of Tecfidera has not been fully established for use during pregnancy and lactation. Patients should discuss the risks and benefits of treatment in detail with their doctor before becoming pregnant or planning a pregnancy. While using Tecfidera, female patients should take effective contraceptive measures until a safe time to stop taking the drug is determined with the advice of a doctor.

7. Gastrointestinal reactions:One of the common side effects of Tecfidera is gastrointestinal discomfort, including diarrhea, abdominal pain, etc. Patients should maintain a good diet and fluid intake while taking the medication to relieve these symptoms. If symptoms are severe or last for a long time, you should communicate with your doctor in time.

8. Increased aldosterone levels:Tecfidera use may result in increased aldosterone levels. Patients should regularly monitor aldosterone levels during treatment to ensure they are within the normal range and pay attention to possible related symptoms, such as edema or hypertension.

9. Other drug interactions: Before using Tecfidera, patients should inform their doctor about all medications they are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements. Certain medications may interact with Tecfidera, affecting the efficacy of the medication or increasing the risk of adverse reactions.

The use of Tecfidera requires close collaboration between patients and doctors to focus on the patient's health and the effectiveness of the drug. Patients should undergo regular medical monitoring during medication, such as blood routine, liver function and immune system monitoring, as well as follow the doctor's recommendations and prescriptions. In any treatment, timely communication between the doctor and the patient about their feelings and discovered problems is the key to ensuring successful treatment and patient safety.

The original drug of dimethyl fumarate has been launched in China and has been included in medical insurance. Patients can buy it domestically at a price of about 5,000 to 6,000 yuan. Please consult the local hospital pharmacy for specific prices. The main foreign drug is dimethyl fumarate Bogen's original drug. The cheaper one is the Indian version of Bogen's original drug, which costs more than 2,000 yuan and has the same composition and efficacy as the domestic original drug.