The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Wednesday approved Tecfidera capsules to treat adults with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS).

MS is a chronic, inflammatory, autoimmune disease of the central nervous system that disrupts communication between the brain and other parts of the body. It is among the most common causes of neurological disability in young adults. For most people with MS, episodes of worsening function (relapses) are initially followed by recovery periods. Over time, recovery periods may be incomplete, leading to progressive decline in function and increased disability.

Results from two clinical trials showed that those taking Tecfidera had fewer MS relapses compared to people taking placebo. One of the trials showed that those taking Tecfidera experienced a worsening of disability less often than patients taking a placebo.

According to the FDA, Tecfidera may decrease a person's white blood cell count. Flushing and stomach problems were the most common adverse reactions reported by patients receiving Tecfidera in clinical trials.