Tecfidera, a medication commonly prescribed for multiple sclerosis (MS), can increase the risk of infections in some patients. This is primarily because Tecfidera works by modulating the immune system, which can reduce the body’s ability to fight off infections effectively. Patients taking Tecfidera may experience a decrease in certain white blood cells, particularly lymphocytes, which play a crucial role in immune defense. This reduction, known as lymphopenia, can make individuals more susceptible to infections, including opportunistic infections that a healthy immune system would typically control.
Tecfidera’s active ingredient, dimethyl fumarate, helps reduce inflammation and immune system activity that damages nerve cells in MS. However, this immune modulation comes with the trade-off of potentially lowering immune surveillance. As a result, patients on Tecfidera are monitored regularly through blood tests to check lymphocyte counts and liver function, since both can be affected by the medication. If lymphocyte levels drop too low, the risk of infections rises, and doctors may adjust the treatment accordingly.
Common infections reported in patients taking Tecfidera include respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and sometimes more serious infections like progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a rare but severe brain infection caused by the JC virus. PML is very uncommon but has been documented in patients with significant lymphopenia on Tecfidera. Because of this risk, patients are advised to report any signs of infection promptly, such as fever, sore throat, or unusual fatigue.
Besides infections, Tecfidera’s side effects often include flushing, gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, which are generally manageable but can affect patient comfort and adherence to treatment. The medication’s impact on the immune system means that patients should avoid live vaccines during treatment and discuss vaccination plans with their healthcare providers to ensure safety.
In clinical practice, the risk of infections with Tecfidera is balanced against its benefits in controlling MS disease activity. Many patients tolerate the drug well without serious infections, especially with proper monitoring. However, the potential for increased infection risk is a critical consideration, and healthcare providers emphasize vigilance for infection symptoms and regular blood work to minimize complications.
In summary, Tecfidera can increase the risk of infections due to its immune-modulating effects, particularly by lowering lymphocyte counts. This necessitates careful monitoring and patient education to detect and manage infections early while benefiting from the drug’s ability to control MS symptoms.
