Dimethyl Fumarate and Its Esters: A Drug with Broad Clinical Utility?

Stephanie Kourakis; Cara A Timpani; Judy B de Haan; Nuri Gueven; Dirk Fischer; Emma Rybalka
Abstract
Fumaric acid esters (FAEs) are small molecules with anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects. Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) is the best characterised FAE and is approved and registered for the treatment of psoriasis and Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS). Psoriasis and RRMS share an immune-mediated aetiology, driven by severe inflammation and oxidative stress. DMF, as well as monomethyl fumarate and diroximel fumarate, are commonly prescribed first-line agents with favourable safety and efficacy profiles. The potential benefits of FAEs against other diseases that appear pathogenically different but share the pathologies of oxidative stress and inflammation are currently investigated.
Journal PHARMACEUTICALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND)
ISSN 1424-8247
Published 13 Oct 2020
Volume 13
Issue 10
Pages
DOI 10.3390/ph13100306
Type Journal Article | Review
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