Fumaric acid

Fumaric acid is an active ingredient that is used to treat psoriasis. It is also often used as an acidifier and acidity regulator. The ester of the acid is also used in the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS). Fumaric acid is a dicarboxylic acid, is usually present as a white crystalline powder and is only slightly soluble in water. It can also be contained in food as an additive (E297) as it has a preservative property. The acid can be used as a topical active ingredient, i.e. locally on the skin, as an injection or in the form of capsules. It is found in various plants and fungi. Fumaric acid belongs to the class of fruit acids. However, it is also produced in various biochemical metabolic pathways in our body, for example as an intermediate product in the citrate cycle or in the urea cycle.

Fumaric acid has an immunosuppressive and immunomodulating effect by inhibiting T and B lymphocytes. It is also a Th1 cell inhibitor. In MS, the acid has a relapse-reducing effect by releasing the cell protection factor Nrf2. The stimulation of the cell nuclear factor also inhibits cytokine production and thus leads to immunosuppression.

Always take fumaric acid exactly as described in the package leaflet or as advised by your doctor.

Adults:

The usual recommended dose is 22 mg 1-3 times a week .

The recommended dose for acute symptoms is 22 mg daily for 3 days .

Fumaric acid is used intramuscularly (application into the muscle), subcutaneously (application under the skin) or intradermally (application into the skin).

Children & adolescents:

The usual recommended dose is 22 mg 1-3 times a week .

The recommended dose for acute symptoms is 22 mg daily for 3 days .

Fumaric acid is used intramuscularly (application into the muscle), subcutaneously (application under the skin) or intradermally (application into the skin).

The following side effects may occur:

• Allergic reactions
• Hypersensitivity reactions

There are no known interactions, as no studies have been carried out.

Fumaric acid must NOT be taken in the following cases:

• In case of allergy to fumaric acid

Fumaric acid can be used from the age of 12 .

Fumaric acid can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding after consultation with your doctor.

Albert Szent-Györgyi was awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 1937 for his work in biochemistry. Among other things, he also researched fumaric acid.