Dimethyl Fumarate

Disease-modifying therapy for relapsing multiple sclerosis

℞ Prescription Only ATC: L04AX07 Immunomodulator
Active Ingredient
Dimethyl fumarate
Dosage Forms
Gastro-resistant hard capsules
Strengths
120 mg, 240 mg
Known Brand Names
Dimethyl fumarate 1A Farma
Medically reviewed | Last reviewed: | Evidence level: 1A
Dimethyl fumarate is an oral immunomodulatory medicine used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) in adults. It works by modifying the immune system and protecting nerve cells from oxidative damage. Clinical trials have demonstrated that dimethyl fumarate significantly reduces relapse rates and the progression of disability in people with relapsing-remitting MS.
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Written and reviewed by iMedic Medical Editorial Team | Specialists in neurology and pharmacology

Quick Facts About Dimethyl Fumarate

Active Ingredient
Dimethyl fumarate
Fumaric acid ester
Drug Class
Immunomodulator
Fumaric acid derivative
ATC Code
L04AX07
Selective immunosuppressant
Common Uses
Relapsing MS
Disease-modifying therapy
Available Forms
Capsules
120 mg & 240 mg
Prescription Status
Rx Only
Prescription required

Key Takeaways About Dimethyl Fumarate

  • First-line oral MS treatment: Dimethyl fumarate is widely used as a first-line disease-modifying therapy for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis in adults
  • Proven efficacy: Clinical trials (DEFINE and CONFIRM) showed approximately 49% reduction in annualized relapse rate compared to placebo
  • Gradual dose titration: Treatment starts at 120 mg twice daily for 7 days, then increases to the maintenance dose of 240 mg twice daily
  • Regular blood monitoring required: Complete blood counts must be checked before starting and every 6-12 months during treatment to monitor lymphocyte levels
  • Common early side effects improve: Flushing and gastrointestinal symptoms are most common in the first month and typically diminish with continued use

What Is Dimethyl Fumarate and What Is It Used For?

Dimethyl fumarate is an oral disease-modifying therapy (DMT) indicated for the treatment of relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) in adults. It reduces the frequency and severity of MS relapses and slows the accumulation of physical disability over time.

Dimethyl fumarate belongs to a class of medications known as fumaric acid esters, which have immunomodulatory and cytoprotective (cell-protecting) properties. It was first approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the myelin sheath — the protective covering around nerve fibres in the brain and spinal cord — leading to inflammation, demyelination, and neurodegeneration.

The medication works through a dual mechanism of action. Its active metabolite, monomethyl fumarate (MMF), activates the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway, which plays a critical role in the body's defence against oxidative stress. This activation upregulates antioxidant response genes, providing neuroprotective effects that help preserve nerve cells from damage. Additionally, dimethyl fumarate has immunomodulatory properties that shift the balance of immune cells away from pro-inflammatory responses (Th1 and Th17 pathways) towards anti-inflammatory responses (Th2 pathway), thereby reducing the autoimmune attack on the nervous system.

In landmark clinical trials — the DEFINE (Determination of the Efficacy and Safety of Oral Fumarate in Relapsing-Remitting MS) and CONFIRM studies — dimethyl fumarate demonstrated a significant reduction in the annualized relapse rate of approximately 44-53% compared to placebo over two years. The studies also showed a significant reduction in new or enlarging lesions visible on MRI scans, as well as a reduction in the risk of disability progression confirmed at 12 weeks. These robust clinical data established dimethyl fumarate as an effective first-line oral treatment option for RRMS.

Dimethyl fumarate is available as gastro-resistant hard capsules in two strengths: 120 mg (for the initial titration period) and 240 mg (for maintenance therapy). The gastro-resistant formulation is designed to release the active substance in the small intestine rather than the stomach, which helps to improve tolerability and reduce gastrointestinal side effects. The brand Dimethyl fumarate 1A Farma is a generic version that contains the same active substance and has been shown to be bioequivalent to the original product.

Good to know:

Dimethyl fumarate is not a cure for multiple sclerosis, but it is an effective disease-modifying therapy that can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of relapses. It is most effective when taken consistently as prescribed and combined with regular medical monitoring. Your neurologist will assess whether dimethyl fumarate is the most appropriate treatment based on your individual disease characteristics, medical history, and treatment goals.

What Should You Know Before Taking Dimethyl Fumarate?

Before starting dimethyl fumarate, you must have blood tests including a complete blood count and liver and kidney function tests. Your doctor needs to assess your medical history, current medications, and pregnancy status to determine if this treatment is safe and appropriate for you.

Starting any disease-modifying therapy for multiple sclerosis is an important decision that should be made together with your neurologist or MS specialist. Before prescribing dimethyl fumarate, your healthcare provider will need comprehensive information about your health status to ensure the medication is safe for you. A thorough baseline assessment is essential because dimethyl fumarate affects the immune system and can have implications for patients with certain pre-existing conditions.

Contraindications

Dimethyl fumarate must not be used in the following situations:

  • Hypersensitivity: Known allergy to dimethyl fumarate, diroximel fumarate, or any of the excipients (inactive ingredients) in the capsule formulation
  • Severe active gastrointestinal disease: Patients with active peptic ulcers or severe inflammatory bowel conditions should not take dimethyl fumarate due to the risk of worsening gastrointestinal symptoms
  • Severe hepatic impairment: Patients with significant liver disease require careful assessment, and use may be contraindicated depending on severity
  • Severe renal impairment: Patients with significantly reduced kidney function (estimated GFR below 30 mL/min) should not use dimethyl fumarate without specialist assessment

Warnings and Precautions

Several important warnings apply to the use of dimethyl fumarate that require ongoing medical monitoring:

Lymphopenia (low lymphocyte count): Dimethyl fumarate can cause a sustained reduction in lymphocyte counts. Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell essential for fighting infections. In clinical trials, approximately 6% of patients experienced lymphocyte counts below 0.5 x 10⁹/L (grade 3 lymphopenia). Prolonged severe lymphopenia (lasting more than 6 months) has been associated with an increased risk of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a rare but serious viral brain infection caused by the JC virus. Complete blood counts should be obtained before treatment initiation, every 6 to 12 months during treatment, and as clinically indicated. If the lymphocyte count falls below 0.5 x 10⁹/L and persists for more than 6 months, your doctor may recommend discontinuing treatment.

Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML): PML is a rare opportunistic infection of the brain that can occur in patients with compromised immune systems. Cases of PML have been reported in patients taking dimethyl fumarate, typically in the setting of moderate-to-severe prolonged lymphopenia. Symptoms of PML may include progressive weakness on one side of the body, vision changes, confusion, personality changes, and difficulties with thinking and memory. If PML is suspected, dimethyl fumarate should be immediately discontinued and appropriate diagnostic investigations performed.

Liver function: Elevations in liver enzymes (transaminases) have been observed with dimethyl fumarate use. Liver function tests should be performed before starting treatment and during treatment as clinically indicated. Cases of clinically significant liver injury, including elevated serum transaminases exceeding five times the upper limit of normal, have been reported. If significant liver injury is detected, treatment should be discontinued.

Flushing reactions: Flushing is one of the most common side effects, occurring in approximately 40% of patients. While generally not dangerous, flushing can be uncomfortable and may include warmth, redness, itching, and burning sensations, primarily affecting the face and upper body. In rare cases, severe flushing can be associated with symptoms resembling an allergic reaction. Taking the medication with food and taking 325 mg non-enteric-coated aspirin 30 minutes before dosing may help reduce flushing.

Important warning:

If you develop signs of a serious infection (persistent fever, unusual fatigue, recurrent infections), new or worsening neurological symptoms, or signs of liver problems (yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, unexplained nausea), contact your healthcare provider immediately. Do not stop taking dimethyl fumarate without medical advice, as sudden discontinuation may lead to a return of MS disease activity.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Dimethyl fumarate should not be used during pregnancy unless clearly necessary and the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the foetus. Animal reproductive studies have shown adverse effects at doses higher than those used in humans. There are limited clinical data on the use of dimethyl fumarate during human pregnancy. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least one month after discontinuation.

It is not known whether dimethyl fumarate or its metabolites are excreted in human breast milk. A risk to the nursing infant cannot be excluded. The decision whether to discontinue breastfeeding or to discontinue dimethyl fumarate therapy should take into account the benefit of breastfeeding for the child and the benefit of therapy for the mother. Discuss your options with your neurologist and obstetrician if you are planning pregnancy or become pregnant while taking this medication.

How Does Dimethyl Fumarate Interact with Other Drugs?

Dimethyl fumarate should not be combined with other immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory therapies for MS. Live vaccines should be avoided during treatment. The medication has limited drug-drug interactions due to its metabolic pathway, but certain combinations require medical supervision.

Understanding potential drug interactions is essential for the safe use of dimethyl fumarate. Because the medication is primarily metabolized by esterases (ubiquitous enzymes present throughout the body) rather than by the cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme system in the liver, it has a relatively favourable drug interaction profile compared to many other medications. However, there are several important interactions and considerations that patients and healthcare providers should be aware of.

The active metabolite monomethyl fumarate (MMF) does not significantly inhibit or induce CYP enzymes or drug transporters at clinically relevant concentrations. This means it is less likely to affect the blood levels of most other commonly prescribed medications. However, the immunomodulatory effects of dimethyl fumarate can interact with other medications that affect the immune system, and these combinations must be carefully managed.

Major Interactions

Major Drug Interactions with Dimethyl Fumarate
Drug / Drug Class Interaction Clinical Significance
Other MS disease-modifying therapies (fingolimod, natalizumab, teriflunomide, etc.) Additive immunosuppressive effects; increased risk of severe lymphopenia and opportunistic infections Do not combine — allow adequate washout period when switching between therapies
Immunosuppressants (azathioprine, methotrexate, ciclosporin, mycophenolate) Increased risk of immunosuppression, infections, and malignancy Concurrent use is contraindicated; prior immunosuppressant use requires careful washout assessment
Live vaccines (MMR, varicella, BCG, yellow fever, oral polio) Reduced immune response; risk of vaccine-associated disease due to immunomodulated state Avoid live vaccines during treatment; complete necessary live vaccinations at least 4-6 weeks before starting
Nephrotoxic drugs (aminoglycosides, NSAIDs at high doses, lithium) Increased risk of kidney damage since dimethyl fumarate metabolites are renally excreted Monitor renal function closely if co-administration is necessary; consider alternatives

Minor Interactions and Considerations

Minor Interactions and Considerations
Drug / Drug Class Interaction Recommendation
Non-enteric-coated aspirin (low dose, 325 mg) May reduce flushing side effects when taken 30 minutes before dimethyl fumarate May be used as supportive therapy during initial treatment period; discuss with doctor
Inactivated vaccines (influenza, COVID-19, hepatitis B) Immune response may be slightly reduced but generally adequate Inactivated vaccines are safe to administer; response should be checked if clinically important
Oral contraceptives No significant pharmacokinetic interaction identified in studies Safe to use concurrently; no dose adjustment needed
Alcohol May worsen flushing and gastrointestinal side effects Moderate alcohol consumption; avoid excessive intake especially during initial treatment

When switching from another MS disease-modifying therapy to dimethyl fumarate, an appropriate washout period must be observed. The duration of the washout depends on the half-life and mechanism of action of the previous therapy. For example, switching from fingolimod requires waiting until lymphocyte counts have recovered, which may take 1-2 months. Your neurologist will determine the appropriate timing for starting dimethyl fumarate based on your individual circumstances and previous treatment history.

What Is the Correct Dosage of Dimethyl Fumarate?

The recommended maintenance dose of dimethyl fumarate is 240 mg twice daily (morning and evening) taken with food. Treatment begins with a lower starting dose of 120 mg twice daily for the first 7 days to improve tolerability.

Dimethyl fumarate follows a structured dose-titration schedule designed to minimise the impact of early side effects, particularly flushing and gastrointestinal symptoms. The capsules are gastro-resistant and should be swallowed whole with liquid. They should not be crushed, broken, or chewed, as this destroys the gastro-resistant coating and may worsen gastrointestinal side effects and alter the drug's absorption profile. Taking the medication with food significantly improves tolerability, particularly for gastrointestinal symptoms.

Adults

Starting Dose (Week 1)

120 mg twice daily (morning and evening with food) for the first 7 days. This initial lower dose allows the body to begin adjusting to the medication and helps reduce the frequency and severity of flushing and gastrointestinal side effects during the critical early treatment period.

Maintenance Dose (Week 2 onwards)

240 mg twice daily (morning and evening with food). This is the recommended full therapeutic dose that should be continued long-term. Clinical trials demonstrated efficacy at this dose for reducing relapse rates and MRI lesion activity.

Dimethyl Fumarate Dosing Schedule
Treatment Phase Dose Frequency Duration
Initiation (titration) 120 mg Twice daily with food First 7 days
Maintenance 240 mg Twice daily with food Ongoing (long-term)

Some patients may experience persistent gastrointestinal side effects even after the initial titration period. In such cases, your doctor may consider temporarily reducing the dose back to 120 mg twice daily for up to 4 weeks to allow further adaptation. The dose should then be increased back to the recommended 240 mg twice daily. Prolonged use at the lower dose is not recommended as it may not provide adequate disease control.

Children

Dimethyl fumarate is not approved for use in children and adolescents under 18 years of age. The safety and efficacy of dimethyl fumarate in paediatric patients have not been established in adequate clinical trials. Paediatric MS is relatively rare and requires specialist management by paediatric neurologists who can advise on appropriate treatment options.

Elderly

There is limited clinical experience with dimethyl fumarate in patients over 55 years of age, as this population was under-represented in the pivotal clinical trials. No specific dose adjustment is generally required based on age alone. However, elderly patients may be more susceptible to lymphopenia and infections, so more frequent blood monitoring may be warranted. Renal and hepatic function should also be taken into consideration, as age-related decline in these organ functions may affect tolerability.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of dimethyl fumarate, take the next dose at the regularly scheduled time. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose. If you frequently forget doses, consider setting a daily alarm or using a pill organiser. Consistent adherence to the prescribed dosing schedule is important for maintaining the therapeutic effect of the medication. Missing occasional doses is unlikely to have a significant impact on disease control, but regularly missed doses may reduce the effectiveness of treatment.

Overdose

There is no specific antidote for dimethyl fumarate overdose. In the event of accidental overdose, general supportive measures should be employed. Signs and symptoms of overdose are expected to be an exaggeration of the known side effects, particularly flushing, gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain), and headache. Haemodialysis is not expected to effectively remove dimethyl fumarate or its metabolite MMF from the body. If an overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control centre or seek immediate medical attention.

What Are the Side Effects of Dimethyl Fumarate?

The most common side effects of dimethyl fumarate are flushing (warmth and redness of the skin) and gastrointestinal symptoms (diarrhoea, nausea, abdominal pain). These side effects are most frequent during the first month of treatment and typically improve significantly with continued use.

Like all medicines, dimethyl fumarate can cause side effects, although not everybody experiences them. The side effect profile has been extensively characterised in clinical trials involving thousands of patients, as well as through post-marketing surveillance data collected since the medication's approval. Understanding the potential side effects and their frequency helps patients and healthcare providers make informed treatment decisions and recognise early warning signs that may require medical attention.

Most side effects associated with dimethyl fumarate are mild to moderate in severity and tend to be most prominent during the first 2-3 months of treatment. With continued use, the frequency and intensity of these side effects typically diminish substantially. This temporal pattern is important for patients to understand, as early tolerance issues may lead to unnecessary discontinuation of an otherwise effective therapy.

Very Common (affects more than 1 in 10 people)

Reported in >10% of patients in clinical trials
  • Flushing (warmth, redness, itching, or burning sensation, primarily of the face and upper body)
  • Diarrhoea
  • Nausea
  • Abdominal pain or cramping
  • Reduced lymphocyte count (detected on blood tests)

Common (affects 1 to 10 in 100 people)

Reported in 1-10% of patients in clinical trials
  • Vomiting
  • Dyspepsia (indigestion, heartburn)
  • Gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining)
  • Elevated liver enzymes (ALT, AST)
  • Hot flushes
  • Pruritus (itching)
  • Rash or erythema (skin redness)
  • Proteinuria (protein in urine)
  • Feeling of warmth or burning
  • Leucopenia (low white blood cell count)

Uncommon (affects 1 to 10 in 1,000 people)

Reported in 0.1-1% of patients in clinical trials
  • Lymphopenia (significant reduction in lymphocytes, below 0.5 x 10⁹/L)
  • Allergic reactions (angioedema, urticaria, anaphylaxis)
  • Herpes zoster (shingles) reactivation

Rare (affects fewer than 1 in 1,000 people)

Reported in <0.1% of patients or post-marketing
  • Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) — in the setting of prolonged lymphopenia
  • Severe liver injury (hepatotoxicity)
  • Severe flushing reactions with systemic symptoms
  • Opportunistic infections
Managing flushing:

Flushing typically occurs within 30 minutes of taking a dose and lasts 20-30 minutes on average. Strategies to reduce flushing include: always taking the capsules with food (especially food containing some fat), taking a non-enteric-coated aspirin (325 mg) 30 minutes before the dose, and allowing time for the body to adapt (flushing often subsides after the first month). Do not skip meals before your dose.

Managing gastrointestinal side effects:

Taking dimethyl fumarate with food is the single most effective strategy for reducing gastrointestinal symptoms. Starting with bland, easily digestible meals and gradually introducing richer foods can help. If symptoms persist, your doctor may temporarily reduce the dose or recommend additional symptomatic treatment such as anti-nausea medication.

If you experience any side effects that are severe, persistent, or concerning, contact your healthcare provider. Do not stop taking dimethyl fumarate without medical advice, as sudden discontinuation may lead to a rebound of MS disease activity. Your neurologist can help weigh the benefits of continued treatment against any side effects you may be experiencing.

How Should You Store Dimethyl Fumarate?

Store dimethyl fumarate capsules below 30°C in the original blister packaging to protect from light. Do not use the medicine after the expiry date printed on the packaging.

Proper storage of dimethyl fumarate is essential to maintain the medication's efficacy and safety throughout its shelf life. The gastro-resistant capsules are sensitive to environmental conditions, and incorrect storage may compromise the gastro-resistant coating, leading to altered drug release and increased gastrointestinal side effects.

The following storage guidelines should be observed:

  • Temperature: Store below 30°C. Do not refrigerate or freeze the capsules
  • Light protection: Keep the capsules in the original blister packaging until the time of use to protect them from light
  • Moisture: Store in a dry place. Do not transfer capsules to a pill box or other container that does not provide adequate moisture protection
  • Expiry date: Do not use the capsules after the expiry date (EXP) stated on the blister and carton. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month
  • Disposal: Do not dispose of unused medicines via household waste or wastewater. Return unused or expired medications to your pharmacist for proper disposal in accordance with local requirements
  • Child safety: Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children

If you notice any change in the appearance of the capsules (such as discolouration, cracking, or visible damage to the capsule shell), do not take them and consult your pharmacist. Damaged capsules may not provide the intended gastro-resistant protection and could result in increased gastrointestinal side effects or altered drug absorption.

What Does Dimethyl Fumarate Contain?

Each dimethyl fumarate gastro-resistant hard capsule contains either 120 mg or 240 mg of the active substance dimethyl fumarate, along with several inactive ingredients (excipients) that are necessary for the capsule's formulation and gastro-resistant properties.

The active substance in this medication is dimethyl fumarate (also known chemically as dimethyl (E)-butenedioate). It is a methyl ester of fumaric acid and is the component responsible for the therapeutic effects of the medication. When ingested, dimethyl fumarate is rapidly and extensively metabolised by esterases in the gastrointestinal tract, blood, and tissues to its primary active metabolite, monomethyl fumarate (MMF).

The inactive ingredients (excipients) serve various functions in the formulation:

  • Capsule core: Microcrystalline cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, talc, silica colloidal anhydrous, magnesium stearate — these provide structure, aid disintegration, and ensure consistent drug release
  • Gastro-resistant coating: Methacrylic acid-methyl methacrylate copolymer, triethyl citrate, talc, simethicone emulsion — this coating prevents the capsule from dissolving in the acidic stomach environment and allows the drug to be released in the more alkaline small intestine
  • Capsule shell: Gelatin, titanium dioxide (E171), brilliant blue FCF (E133) [for 120 mg capsules], iron oxide yellow (E172) and iron oxide red (E172) [for colouring identification purposes]
  • Printing ink: Shellac, iron oxide black (E172), propylene glycol, potassium hydroxide — used for the identification markings printed on the capsule shell

If you have known allergies or intolerances to any of these ingredients, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting treatment. Some patients may be sensitive to certain colouring agents or excipients, though clinically significant reactions to the excipients in dimethyl fumarate capsules are rare.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dimethyl Fumarate

Dimethyl fumarate is a disease-modifying therapy (DMT) used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) in adults. It helps reduce the frequency of relapses and slows the progression of physical disability associated with MS. It is taken orally as gastro-resistant capsules twice daily. Clinical trials demonstrated approximately 44-53% reduction in relapse rates compared to placebo, making it one of the most effective first-line oral treatments for RRMS.

The most common side effects are flushing (warmth and redness, especially of the face) and gastrointestinal symptoms including diarrhoea, nausea, abdominal pain, and vomiting. These side effects are most frequent during the first month of treatment and typically improve over time. Taking the medication with food can help reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Non-enteric-coated aspirin taken 30 minutes before dosing may help reduce flushing.

Dimethyl fumarate begins to affect the immune system within weeks of starting treatment. Clinical trial data shows significant reduction in relapse rates within the first year of use. However, the full therapeutic benefit may take several months to become apparent, as the medication works by gradually modifying the immune system's activity. MRI monitoring may show reduced lesion activity earlier than clinical effects become noticeable. It is important to continue taking the medication as prescribed even if you do not feel an immediate effect.

There is no specific contraindication to moderate alcohol consumption while taking dimethyl fumarate. However, both alcohol and dimethyl fumarate can cause flushing, so combining them may worsen this side effect. Alcohol may also worsen gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and abdominal discomfort. It is advisable to limit alcohol intake, especially during the first few months of treatment while your body is adjusting to the medication, and to discuss alcohol consumption with your healthcare provider.

A complete blood count (CBC) including lymphocyte count should be obtained before starting dimethyl fumarate, then every 6 to 12 months during treatment, and as clinically indicated. Liver function tests and kidney function tests should also be performed before starting and periodically during treatment. Low lymphocyte counts may increase the risk of serious infections, including the rare but serious brain infection PML. Your neurologist will determine the appropriate monitoring schedule based on your individual risk factors.

Yes, many patients switch to dimethyl fumarate from other MS disease-modifying therapies. However, an appropriate washout period is required between stopping the previous medication and starting dimethyl fumarate. The length of this washout depends on the previous medication's mechanism of action and how long its effects persist. For example, switching from interferons or glatiramer acetate may require minimal washout, while switching from fingolimod requires waiting until lymphocyte counts recover. Your neurologist will determine the safest timing for the switch based on your individual circumstances.

References

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  3. Fox RJ, Miller DH, Phillips JT, et al. Placebo-controlled phase 3 study of oral BG-12 or glatiramer in multiple sclerosis (CONFIRM study). N Engl J Med. 2012;367(12):1087-1097. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa1206328
  4. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Dimethyl fumarate for treating relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Technology appraisal guidance [TA320]. Published August 2014, last reviewed 2023.
  5. Rae-Grant A, Day GS, Marrie RA, et al. Practice guideline recommendations summary: Disease-modifying therapies for adults with multiple sclerosis. Neurology. 2018;90(17):777-788. doi:10.1212/WNL.0000000000005347
  6. US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Tecfidera (dimethyl fumarate) — Prescribing Information. Revised 2024.
  7. World Health Organization (WHO). Model List of Essential Medicines. 23rd list, 2023.
  8. Berkovich R, Weiner LP. Effects of dimethyl fumarate on lymphocyte subsets. Mult Scler Relat Disord. 2015;4(6):594-596. doi:10.1016/j.msard.2015.08.005
  9. Linker RA, Lee DH, Ryan S, et al. Fumaric acid esters exert neuroprotective effects in neuroinflammation via activation of the Nrf2 antioxidant pathway. Brain. 2011;134(Pt 3):678-692. doi:10.1093/brain/awq386
  10. Montalban X, Gold R, Thompson AJ, et al. ECTRIMS/EAN guideline on the pharmacological treatment of people with multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler. 2018;24(2):96-120. doi:10.1177/1352458517751049

About the Medical Editorial Team

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