Tecfidera and Upset Stomach: What Users Say

• Nur...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• October 2, 2018

For Multiple Sclerosis "This is the 3rd drug I’ve tried for RRMS (Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis). About 5-6 weeks into taking it, I did start to notice the facial flushing. About 3 hours after taking a dose, my face would turn red, then start burning and itching for about 20 min. I also had stomach cramping and nausea. Taking Aspirin 324 mg chewed and taking the 1st dose after 9 am with a snack helped reduce those symptoms. After taking this drug for 3 months, I suddenly developed severe joint pain and swelling that limited my movement. The pains were there when I woke up and would resolve in one joint and present in another throughout the day. I’ll be leery of these drugs from now on. Background info-I take VitD 50,000 iu weekly, B-12 500 mcg daily, and Align daily. I am a runner and a nurse."

• T20...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• October 21, 2019

For Multiple Sclerosis "Been taking Tecfidera for my MS about 4 months, been having hot flashes, very little stomach discomfort, but my huge complaint is my hair is falling out. It’s pretty bad and very upsetting from a woman’s standpoint. Trying to switch from Tecfidera, which was my first MS drug - I was diagnosed in July. The hair loss is not a common side effect, but I think it needs to be added to the list!"

• mim...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• September 4, 2018

For Multiple Sclerosis "My husband takes this after failing with Avonex and Copaxone for RRMS. Ever since he started, he's had headaches, stomach aches, joint pain, and severe fatigue. He's now taking Vitamin D and Wellbutrin. Can't sleep through the night because of pain and can't stay awake because of the fatigue. Can't do much exercise or activities due to the headaches. Only good thing was it stopped the progression of lesions. But what good is that when you don't have quality of life?"

• KJa...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• June 16, 2020

For Multiple Sclerosis "I was diagnosed with MS in February 2018. I started taking Copaxone, but after the first year, an MRI showed a new lesion, so I stopped. I did not enjoy injections three times a week, but I had very few side effects. I stayed off of medication for about a year and again had one new lesion. I started Tecfidera three weeks ago today. Day two of the starter dose had mild GI troubles. Then day four got a little worse but not horrible. I started the full dose and had slightly worse GI symptoms. Sadly, day six on the full dose, I was bad. I have terrible diarrhea and stomach cramps. Now my heart rate is elevated, I have a low-grade fever, and I’m on day three of very bad GI symptoms. I’m trying to stay hydrated and am hoping this will be short-lived."

• Bri...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• October 31, 2019

For Multiple Sclerosis "I was told I had MS in 2004. Doctor started me out with taking Avonex weekly. I hated injecting myself and the flu-like feeling after taking it. That was 8 years. Doctor suggested Tecfidera, so I decided to try it. I have found that taking it with food helps the flushing and itching. Also, it helps to take the medicine at the same time each day. Missing a dose will usually cause the flushing and itching to return. I also find that taking it without food causes stomach issues. MRI results show that it is indeed working, with no new signs of MS showing."

• Kar...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• November 16, 2019

For Multiple Sclerosis "I've been on Tecfidera for 8 months. Been having stomach issues, thought it was my pancreas, which I do have a cyst on. The pain after taking this medication is terrible! The flushing is getting worse, not better! Now, because of aspirin and the meds, I am having severe gastrointestinal issues! I would rather deal with the side effects of injections, much easier to deal with! Seeing my doctor in 2 weeks and am going off of it!"

• 130...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• March 25, 2023

For Multiple Sclerosis "I had no problem switching from Rebif (taken from 1994-2016). I was hesitant because of the gastro side effects. I always have a large breakfast when I take the first dosage consisting of sugar-free 0% fat Greek yogurt and other healthy fruit and grains. I think the yogurt helps. I never have had a stomach ache or diarrhea taking this drug. It is easier and has fewer side effects than the newer, harsher B cell infusion drugs like Ocrevus or Rituximab, but maybe these are more effective depending on their latest MRI scans and disability?"