Dimethyl Fumarate is an immunosuppressant drug developed by the U.S. Food And Drug Administration and initially approved in 2013 for treating multiple sclerosis (MS).

Dimethyl Fumarate is used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), including relapsing-remitting and active secondary progressive multiple sclerosis. It helps reduce the frequency of relapses and slows the progression of the disease.

Take the Dimethyl Fumarate as advised by your physician. Do not crush, chew, or open the medicine. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. Only stop taking the capsule if your doctor advises you to stop.

The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with Dimethyl Fumarate are inflammation of the lining of the gut, indigestion, feeling sick, burning sensation, hot flushes, itchy skin, and pink or red skin blotches. Some serious side effects include allergic reactions, and low white blood cell count, infections.

This drug is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to it or its component. Before initiating the treatment with Dimethyl Fumarate, your doctor will conduct essential tests to assess white blood cell counts, liver and kidney function. Periodic monitoring will continue throughout treatment to ensure your well-being. If certain conditions apply to you, such as severe kidney or liver disease, stomach or bowel issues, or a serious infection like herpes zoster (shingles). In that case, you should discuss these with your physician before taking this drug.

Dimethyl Fumarate can be used in children and adults aged 13 years and above. Do not use this drug if you are suspected to have or have confirmed progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a rare brain infection. Your doctor shall prescribe this medicine during pregnancy only if necessary. If you are pregnant, suspecting, or planning for the pregnancy, report to your doctor before starting the treatment. It is unknown if this medicine passes into the breast milk. Please consult your doctor before breastfeeding. 

A low white blood cell count, also known as leukopenia, can occur as a side effect of taking Dimethyl Fumarate (DMF). White blood cells are essential for fighting infections, so it's important to take special care to minimize the risk of infections while on this medication. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating or touching your face. Avoid close contact with individuals who have contagious illnesses.

1. Biogen Netherlands BV; Electronic Medicines Compendium; [Revised on May 2022], [Accessed on 31 August 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.5256.pdf
2. Biogen; US Food And Drug Administration; [Revised on March 2013] [Accessed on 31 August 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2013/204063lbl.pdf
3. HA Blair; Dimethyl fumarate: A Review in relapsing, remitting MS; [Revised on 2019] [Accessed on 31 August 2023], https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31784875/
4. Jineane V Venci et al. Dimethyl fumarate (Dimethyl fumarate Capsule): A new oral agent for multiple sclerosis; [Revised on 2013] [Accessed on 31 August 2023], https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24259625/

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice; it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.