Interactions
Interactions occur with Tecfidera® above all when the other drug taken has a nephrotoxic effect (toxic to the kidneys). Since Tecfidera® also sometimes causes side effects on the kidneys, the combination of two nephrotoxic drugs could result in severe kidney damage and, in the worst case, kidney failure. Drugs that burden the kidneys include NSAIDS, which also include Aspirin® and ibuprofen.
Caution is also advised when using Tecfidera® simultaneously with substances that suppress the immune system, such as cortisol. The fact that Tecfidera® probably has a throttling effect on the immune system can lead to an increase in its effectiveness. There are no studies on taking the contraceptive pill with Tecfidera®, but there are recommendations that non-hormonal contraceptive methods, such as condoms, should be considered when taking Tecfidera®.
Tecfidera during pregnancy
There are no clinical studies on the use of Tecfidera® during pregnancy and lactation, although various experiments suggest that the drug may have a negative effect on the health of the unborn child. Treatment with Tecfidera® is not recommended due to the limited current state of knowledge. Whether the active ingredient of Tecfidera® passes into breast milk has not been proven either. Breastfeeding mothers should therefore weigh up the benefits and possible risks of taking Tecfidera® carefully.
Price
Although the active ingredient fumaric acid dimethyl ester is relatively cheap, the drug Tecfidera® costs a great deal. The annual cost of a daily treatment with Tecfidera® amounts to approximately 15,000 euros. If two tablets are taken every day, this results in a price of approximately 46 euros per day, which corresponds to a price of 23 euros per tablet. Fumarderm®, on the other hand, costs only a fraction, but is not approved for MS therapy.
