Efficacy and safety of fumaric acid esters in patients with psoriasis on medication for comorbid conditions - a retrospective evaluation (FACTS)

BACKGROUND: Safety and efficacy of fumaric acid esters (FAE) in patients with psoriasis requiring treated comorbidit condition were investigated.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: Data collected from 7 dermatology centers were used for a retrospective analysis of patients treated continuously with FAE for at least 6 weeks who required at least one medication for a comorbid condition. The records were analyzed at baseline and after 1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 months of therapy. Safety parameters were monitored and the severity of skin symptoms was assessed by 'Physician's Global Assessment' (PGA).

RESULTS: A total of 69 patients with moderate to severe psoriasis and a mean duration of 27.4 months of continuous treatment were included in the study. In less than 5% were interactions between FAE and co-medications observed. Changes of hepatic, renal or hematological laboratory parameters were usually insignificant and required a modification of FAE treatment in less than 12% of the cases. The percentage of patients documented as markedly improved or clear was 61% after 6 months, 77% after 12 months, and 75% after 24 months of therapy.

CONCLUSIONS: In patients with moderate to severe psoriasis on co-medications, FAE were effective and safe without any noteworthy drug interactions.