Antipsoriatic effect of fumaric acid derivatives. Results of a multicenter double-blind study in 100 patients.

Background: Psoriasis vulgaris may benefit from treatment with fumaric acid and/or its derivatives; however, because different preparations have been used, results have been contradictory and difficult to interpret.

Objective: The purpose of this clinical trial was to evaluate the therapeutic value of fumaric acid derivatives.

Methods: A randomized double-blind study was carried out in patients with psoriasis, comparing a well-characterized formulation of fumaric acid derivatives with placebo.

Results: The results indicated statistically significant superiority of the fumaric acid derivatives over placebo. Adverse events (flush, gastrointestinal disturbances) were initially relatively frequent, but decreased thereafter.

Conclusion: Fumaric acid derivatives were found to be effective and safe in the treatment of psoriasis.