What happens if Tecfidera is stopped abruptly?

6/9/2017

Here is My Question:
If I stopped taking Tecfidera abruptly what would happen?

Answer:
Abruptly discontinuing Tecfidera is not an issue for concerns around rebound disease activity (which is a problem with Tysabri and Gilenya, for example). Although you eliminate Tecfidera rapidly by exhaling, there can be more lasting effects of the medication on white blood cell counts. Very low lymphocyte counts can occur on Tecfidera which can take an extended period of time to recover after stopping the medication. This should be monitored if an issue (particularly if transitioning to another therapy).

A. Scott Nielsen MD MMSc
Neurologist and MS Specialist Kaiser Permanente

Sue Sullivan

6/4/2019 12:34:38 pm

I moved back to my hometown a year ago. My new neurologist took me abruptly off of Tecfidera.. because of my white count..
I was very vocal about not being on anything.
After 4 months I was put on Abagio (spelling).. which I could tell wasn't working.
My MRI showed ny MS was active..
After my complaining.. I was started on Retuxin..
My lengthy first infusion was close to 3 months ago..
I can barely walk now...no energy or strength..
Jm told infusions are every 6 months..
I go see my neurologist in 2 days..
I will beg for a change back to Tecfidera..
I'm very sad ..

Sue Sullivan

7/11/2019 10:15:26 pm

I am still having a hard time walking..
I got one 7 hour infusion of Retuxin..
So far I have got worse..
I was told that this new drug should have started working.. in so sad.. can’t shop or anything...

Sarah

9/7/2019 09:17:44 pm

In regards to Sue Sullivan's posts, I feel for you. I am 38 years old and on tecfidera. I am very lucky that I have not lost mobility in my legs. Although I am quite sad most of the time, after reading your posts, I felt more sad. Not for me, but for you. I wish you the best in your endeavors with new medications. I hope you find one that lifts your spirits and helps you walk better. If you would like to respond to me, I am here do only listen if that's all you need. May God bless you.

Beatrice Zaharian

8/30/2019 04:54:11 am

I’m so happy to read this post,
I’m on Tecfedera and need to suddenly stop due to an infection, looks like the restart won’t be an issue

Iris

10/9/2019 06:09:45 pm

What kind of infection

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