Managing common side effects

Get the tips that could help you handle common side effects

If you’re taking Tecfidera® (dimethyl fumarate), you may already know about its common side effects. On this page, you’ll learn about the different tips available that may help you manage them.

Choose a common side effect to learn more:

What is flushing?

Symptoms are usually described as redness, itching, or rash. In clinical studies, this is one of the most common side effects of TECFIDERA.

Tips for handling flushing

Call your healthcare provider if you have any questions about TECFIDERA side effects or treatment in general.

Taking a non-coated aspirin (up to 325 mg) 30 minutes before taking TECFIDERA may help with flushing. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist for suggestions. Remember to read the directions on the package when taking any over-the-counter (OTC) medications, and only take as instructed.

Food may help with flushing. If you decide to take TECFIDERA with food, it should be taken after you eat.

You could have other side effects. If they bother you or don't go away, or if you have general questions about side effects, talk to your healthcare provider.

What are stomach problems?

Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, or indigestion. In clinical studies, this is one of the most common side effects of TECFIDERA.

Tips for handling stomach problems

Call your healthcare provider if you have any questions about TECFIDERA side effects or treatment in general.

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications, like antacids, might also help manage stomach problems.* Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist for suggestions. Remember to read the directions on the package when taking any OTC medications, and only take as instructed.

Food may help with stomach problems*—especially high-fat foods, like peanut butter, cheese, or yogurt. If you decide to take TECFIDERA with food, it should be taken after you eat. Visit the USDA website for more information about how fats fit into a healthy diet.

*In a small 12-week study, people recorded their experience of managing stomach problems while on TECFIDERA. They found that taking it with food or OTC medications could help.

You could have other side effects. If they bother you or don't go away, or if you have general questions about side effects, talk to your healthcare provider.


In clinical trials, common side effects tended to happen earlier in treatment, and usually decreased over time. Keep in mind that everyone is different and may react differently to the same medication.