Description
Your doctor may prescribe Vumerity to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is a chronic condition that affects the nervous system, leading to a wide range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. In relapsing forms of MS, patients experience periods of worsening symptoms, known as relapses, followed by recovery.
Vumerity helps reduce the frequency of relapses and slows the progression of physical disability. Modulating the immune system and targeting inflammation helps prevent further nerve damage.
Diroximel fumarate, the active compound in Vumerity, is believed to work by activating the Nrf2 pathway. This pathway protects nerve cells from oxidative stress and reduces inflammation, helping to preserve nerve function.
Fact Table
|
Formula
|
C8H9NO6
|
License
|
US FDA
|
Bioavailability
|
Rapidly converted to active metabolite (monomethyl fumarate)
|
Legal status
|
Prescription only (Rx)
|
Chemical Name
|
(E)-1-(Methoxycarbonyl)ethenyl hydrogen butanedioate
|
Elimination half-life
|
~1 hour (for active metabolite)
|
Dosage (Strength)
|
231 mg delayed-release capsules
|
Pregnancy
|
Consult a doctor
|
Brands
|
Vumerity
|
Protein binding
|
27-40% (monomethyl fumarate)
|
PubChem CID
|
135565856
|
MedlinePlus
|
a620005
|
ChEBI
|
CHEBI:134722
|
ATC code
|
L04AX09
|
DrugBank
|
DB15509
|
KEGG
|
D11031
|
Routes of administration
|
Oral
|
Directions
The standard dosage begins with 231 mg taken twice daily for the first seven days, followed by 462 mg twice daily after that.
Vumerity may be taken with or without food, but avoid consuming it with high-fat meals, which can affect absorption.
Swallow the capsules whole; do not crush, chew, or break them.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in Vumerity diroximel fumarate.
Interactions
Known drug-drug interactions can include:
- Alcohol
- Dimethyl Fumarate
Cautions
Before starting Vumerity, discuss your complete medical history with your doctor, especially if you have experienced liver problems, kidney issues, or low white blood cell counts. Also, notify your healthcare provider if you have had limb swelling (angioedema).
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult their doctor about potential risks, as the effects of Vumerity during pregnancy or while breastfeeding are not fully known.
Do not take Vumerity if you are allergic to diroximel fumarate or any other ingredients in the drug.
Additionally, you should avoid live vaccines while using Vumerity.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Vumerity are:
- Abdominal pain
- Anaphylaxis
- Angioedema
- Diarrhea
- Flushing
- Gastrointestinal tract drug side effect
- Herpes zoster
- Injury of liver
- Infectious disease
- Lymphocytopenia
- Nausea
- Opportunistic infection
- Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy
References
Vumerity [package insert]. Cambridge, MA: Biogen; 2024.
About Dr. Conor Sheehy (Page Author)
Dr. Sheehy (BSc Molecular Biology, PharmD) works a clinical pharmacist specializing in cardiology, oncology, and ambulatory care. He’s a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist (BCPS), and his experience working one-on-one with patients to fine tune their medication and therapy plans for optimal results makes him a valuable subject matter expert for our pharmacy. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 14629