Dimethyl Fumarate
Dimethyl Fumarate
Dimethyl Fumarate (pronunciation: dye-METH-il foo-MAR-ate) is a medication used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis and psoriasis. It is an ester of fumaric acid, and is marketed under the brand names Tecfidera and Skilarence.
Etymology
The term "Dimethyl Fumarate" is derived from its chemical structure. "Dimethyl" refers to the presence of two methyl groups in the molecule, while "Fumarate" is derived from "Fumaric Acid", the parent compound from which Dimethyl Fumarate is synthesized.
Usage
Dimethyl Fumarate is used in the treatment of relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis and moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. It is believed to work by decreasing inflammation and preventing nerve damage that can lead to symptoms of multiple sclerosis. In psoriasis, it helps to reduce the speed of skin cell growth.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Dimethyl Fumarate include flushing, stomach pain, diarrhea, and nausea. Serious side effects may include allergic reactions, PML (a rare brain infection), and liver problems.
Related Terms
- Multiple Sclerosis: A chronic disease that affects the central nervous system, particularly the brain and spinal cord.
- Psoriasis: A chronic skin condition that causes cells to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin.
- Fumaric Acid: An organic compound that is a key intermediate in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle for organic molecules.
- Ester: A class of organic compounds that react with water to produce alcohols and organic or inorganic acids.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Dimethyl Fumarate
- Wikipedia's article - Dimethyl Fumarate
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