Tecfidera, a medication commonly prescribed for relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), is known to cause flushing as one of its side effects. Flushing refers to a sudden reddening of the skin, often accompanied by a feeling of warmth, typically affecting the face, neck, and sometimes the chest. This reaction is relatively common among people taking Tecfidera and usually appears early in the treatment process.
The flushing caused by Tecfidera happens because the drug contains dimethyl fumarate, which affects blood vessels and can lead to their dilation. This dilation increases blood flow to the skin, resulting in redness and warmth. Many patients experience flushing within the first month of starting Tecfidera, and while it may lessen over time, it can continue intermittently throughout the course of treatment.
Flushing with Tecfidera is generally considered mild to moderate and is not usually dangerous, but it can be uncomfortable or bothersome. Some people describe it as a sudden wave of heat spreading across their skin, sometimes accompanied by itching or tingling sensations. The intensity and frequency of flushing episodes vary from person to person.
Interestingly, the likelihood and severity of flushing can be influenced by how Tecfidera is taken. Studies have shown that taking Tecfidera with food can reduce the incidence of flushing by about 25%. This is because food slows the absorption of the medication, leading to a less intense reaction in the blood vessels. Patients are often advised to take Tecfidera with a meal or a snack to help minimize flushing.
Besides flushing, Tecfidera can also cause gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, which sometimes occur alongside flushing. These side effects tend to start early during treatment and may continue intermittently but often improve as the body adjusts to the medication.
Flushing is not unique to Tecfidera; other drugs with similar active ingredients, like Riulvy and Vumerity (both containing fumarate compounds), also report flushing as a common side effect. This suggests that flushing is related to the chemical action of the fumarate component rather than other aspects of the medication.
For people who experience flushing, there are some practical steps to manage it:
– Taking the medication with food, especially a low-fat meal, can help reduce flushing episodes.
– Avoiding hot drinks, alcohol, and spicy foods around the time of taking Tecfidera may also lessen flushing.
– Some patients find that over-the-counter aspirin taken before Tecfidera can reduce flushing, but this should only be done after consulting a healthcare provider.
– Staying hydrated and wearing loose, breathable clothing can make flushing episodes more comfortable.
If flushing is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, or swelling, it is important to seek medical advice promptly, as these could indicate more serious reactions.
In summary, flushing is a well-recognized and relatively common side effect of Tecfidera. It results from the drug’s effect on blood vessels and is usually mild and manageable. Taking Tecfidera with food and following other simple precautions can help reduce the frequency and severity of flushing, allowing many patients to continue their treatment with minimal discomfort.
