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

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. The purpose of this clinical trial was to evaluate the therapeutic value of fumaric acid derivatives. A randomized double-blind study was carried out in patients with psoriasis, comparing a well-characterized formulation of fumaric acid derivatives with placebo. 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. Fumaric acid derivatives were found to be effective and safe in the treatment of psoriasis.