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Dimethyl fumarate

Written By Dr. Swati MishraReviewed By Dr. Rajeev Sharma
Last updated 25 Nov 2025 | 09:34 AM (UTC)

Dimethyl fumarate Uses

Dimethyl fumarate is used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS).

How Dimethyl fumarate works

Dimethyl fumarate is an Nrf2 activator. It works by suppressing inflammation and immune response that cause nerve damage in multiple sclerosis.

Common side effects of Dimethyl fumarate

Flushing (sense of warmth in the face, ears, neck and trunk), Nausea, Diarrhea, Nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the throat and nasal passages), Urinary tract infection, Upper respiratory tract infection, Abdominal pain, Protein in urine, Vomiting, Itching, Rash, Hot flashes, Increased alanine aminotransferase, Gastroenteritis, Dyspepsia, Erythema (skin redness), Microalbuminuria, Dryness in mouth, Hypersensitivity, Weight loss, Allergic dermatitis, Otitis media (infection of ear), Lymphocytopenia
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Expert advice for Dimethyl fumarate

  • Dimethyl fumarate helps treat multiple sclerosis.
  • Take it with food to avoid an upset stomach.
  • Do not chew, crush or break the tablets as they have a special coating  to help prevent irritation of your stomach.
  • Do not consume alcohol while taking this medicine as it may worsen the side effects.
  • Your doctor may get regular blood and urine tests done to monitor your blood cells, kidney and liver function during treatment with this medicine. 
  • Inform your doctor immediately if you notice any signs of infection such as fever, sore throat, rash or severe diarrhea.
  • Do not take Dimethyl fumarate if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Use a reliable contraceptive method to prevent pregnancy.
  • Dimethyl fumarate helps treat multiple sclerosis.
  • Take it with food to avoid an upset stomach.
  • Do not chew, crush or break the tablets as they have a special coating  to help prevent irritation of your stomach.
  • Do not consume alcohol while taking this medicine as it may worsen the side effects.
  • Your doctor may get regular blood and urine tests done to monitor your blood cells, kidney and liver function during treatment with this medicine. 
  • Inform your doctor immediately if you notice any signs of infection such as fever, sore throat, rash or severe diarrhea.
  • Do not take Dimethyl fumarate if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Use a reliable contraceptive method to prevent pregnancy.