Tecfidera/BG-12 – Newly Approved Treatment for MS
If you or a loved one suffers from multiple sclerosis, you
should take a look at a new drug called Tecfidera. This is a new iteration of a drug known as
BG-12 (scientific name dimethyl fumarate); it is classified as a fumaric acid
ester, and was banned in the United Stated until recently.
The reason for this ban was that the chemical was previously
employed as a fungicide to treat upholstery.
It had side effects that caused burn-like allergic reactions, which led
to it getting pulled from the market.
Other reported side effects include gastrointestinal issues (reported by
nearly 60% of patients), and more rarely, development of PML.
However, new tests indicate that the drug’s therapeutic
effects regarding MS may outweigh any side effects the compound causes. These tests indicate that BG-12 acts as an
Nrf2 signaling pathway; in layman’s’ terms this means that it is similar to
fighting fire with fire. It encourages
your body to secrete enzymes meant to fight oxidative changes and stresses in
your body, and consequently has a muting effect on the immune system.
While more study is definitely required, if you suffer from
severe multiple sclerosis, discuss this new treatment with your doctor and see
if this therapy would possibly be a good fit .
No comments:
Post a Comment