[Fumaric acid as therapeutic agent for multiple sclerosis]

Abstract

After the approval of fumaric acid in February 2014 another first line agent is now available for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). Along with the various beta interferon preparations, glatiramer acetate, teriflunomide and fumaric acid add to the repertoire of oral therapeutics for the initial treatment of relapsing remitting MS in daily practice. In order to employ these drugs in an individualized and precise medical manner and considering their efficacy and side effects, it seems worthwhile to learn the so far known mode of action and background history. Fumaric acid, as one of the newest drugs approved for MS, reveals the longest history as it was in use for decades as a treatment in psoriasis patients. Furthermore, fumaric acid is a good example for so far not extensively exploited option of drug reposition in medicine in general. The current review summarizes the outcomes of the clinical approval studies of fumaric acid in MS and discusses the dual mode of action, the immunomodulatory and tissue protective effect, as well as the reported adverse events under fumaric acid treatment. This review aims to serve an aid in the daily decision-making practice when choosing the baseline therapy for MS patients.