dimethyl fumarate

Dimethyl fumarate is an oral small molecule drug primarily used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), including clinically isolated syndrome (CIS), relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), and active secondary progressive MS. It was originally developed by Biogen and approved by the FDA in 2013 for MS. In Europe and China it is also approved for these indications. The drug acts as a prodrug that is rapidly converted to its active metabolite monomethyl fumarate after oral administration. Its mechanism involves activation of the Nrf2 pathway—a key regulator of cellular antioxidant response—leading to immunomodulatory and cytoprotective effects such as reduced inflammation and protection against oxidative stress-induced neuronal damage. Additionally, it inhibits nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling and shifts immune cell phenotypes from pro-inflammatory to anti-inflammatory states[1][3][6][8][9]. In Germany, a combination product containing dimethyl fumarate with other esters is used for psoriasis; however, pure dimethyl fumarate has also been studied for this indication[2][3].

Brand names

TecfideraSkilarenceDimethyl Fumarate AccordDimethyl Fumarate MylanDimethyl Fumarate Neuraxpharm

Other names

富马酸二甲酯dimethyl fumaric acid ester