[Fumarates - far more than a dietary supplement].

Fumaric acid has an important role in the citric acid cycle. Its esters were first used by a German chemist to treat his own psoriasis, hypothesizing that the disease may be related to disturbances in this very cycle. Meanwhile, the mechanisms underlying its anti-inflammatory efficacy are much better understood. A monosubstance derived from the mix of esters used originally is now being authorized for treating multiple sclerosis, and in 2017 dimethylfumaric acid ester became a globally available option to treat psoriasis. This very practical therapeutic will most likely become quite popular amongst patients. Therefore, general practitioners might need to familiarize themselves with the profile of this drug, including its potential risks and some very rare but potentially important adverse effects.