Fumaric Acid

Description:

Fumaric acid, also known as trans-butanedioic acid, is an unsaturated dicarbonic acid, the trans iosmer of malic acid and is an intermediate in the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle), the center for energy production in each cell. It is the by-product of the cycle and therefore present in every cell. When sun is exposed to healthy individuals' skin, the ultra violet rays form fumaric acid. In individuals with psoriasis, fumaric acid is not formed as quickly as in healthy individuals and must require longer exposure to sunlight. A lack of fumaric acid leads to the accumulation of half-products, thought to be the cause of psoriatic lesions. Psoriasis is possibly a fumaric acid metabolism defect.

Physiologic Therapeutics:

• Intermediate in the Krebs cycle
• Prevents accumulation of half-products in the skin

Clinical Indications:

• Psoriasis
• Psoriatic arthritis

Dosage:

• Take 1 capsule daily at the end of each meal on a full stomach for 2 weeks
  Then, 2 capsules daily at the end of each meal on a full stomach for 2 weeks
  Finally, 3 capsules daily at the end of each meal on a full stomach for 3 weeks
• 15 - 30 minutes after dosage, the skin, shoulders, neck regions up to the ear lobes should grow warm and tingle for approximately 30 minutes, which indicates the fumaric acid metabolic process has started. If this does not occur, the dosage should be increased.

Drug/Nutrient Interaction:

• Do NOT take these medications while taking fumaric acid:
  
  ACE inhibitors
  Beta blockers, i.e. propranolol
  Calcium antagonists
  Penicillin VK

Adverse Reactions and Toxicity:

• Usually well tolerated
• Rare:
  
  Too much fumaric acid can result in heat wave and a drop in blood sugar

Copyright 1998 - 2008 by L. Vicky Crouse, ND and James S. Reiley, ND. All rights reserved (ISSN 1527-0661).