Healthcare providers need to stay up-to-date with the prescribing information of the latest drugs in the market. In this regard, Tecfidera is a medication that has shown promising results in managing relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) in adults. However, the drug’s prescribing information can come across as complex and challenging to decipher. Here’s what healthcare providers should know about Tecfidera prescribing information.
Mechanism of Action
Understanding the mechanism of action of Tecfidera is crucial in comprehending its prescribing information. Tecfidera contains dimethyl fumarate, which, when ingested, gets metabolized to the active metabolite, monomethyl fumarate. The metabolite acts by modulating the immune system to reduce inflammation and slow down the progression of multiple sclerosis symptoms.
Dosage and Administration
Tecfidera is usually administered orally twice daily, with or without food. The recommended dosage is 120mg twice daily for the first week, after which it is increased to 240mg twice daily. However, healthcare providers should be mindful of interrupting or discontinuing the medication without appropriate guidance, as it can lead to disease exacerbation in RRMS patients.
Warnings and Precautions
The prescribing information of Tecfidera contains a list of warnings and precautions that healthcare providers should be aware of. The primary warning is regarding progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a rare but potentially fatal brain infection. Healthcare providers should educate patients about the symptoms of PML and monitor them closely throughout the treatment course.
Other factors that require caution include liver injury, lymphopenia, and allergic reactions. It is recommended to conduct liver function tests routinely and monitor absolute lymphocyte count before initiating Tecfidera treatment and periodically thereafter. Healthcare providers should advise patients to report any allergic reactions, including rash, shortness of breath, or chest tightness, immediately.
Conclusion
Tecfidera can be an effective treatment option for adults with RRMS. However, healthcare providers should be thorough with the drug’s prescribing information, including its mechanism of action, dosage, administration, warnings, and precautionary measures. By doing so, they can minimize the risk of adverse events and help their patients achieve the best possible clinical outcomes.
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