2 The technology

Dimethyl fumarate (Skilarence, Almirall)

Marketing authorisation

Dimethyl fumarate is indicated 'for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults in need of systemic medicinal therapy'.

Recommended dose and schedule

The maximum dosage is 240 mg 3 times daily given orally, after an initial titration schedule. In the first week, 30 mg is taken once daily. In the second week, 30 mg is taken twice daily. In the third week, 30 mg is taken 3 times daily. From the fourth week, a single 120‑mg daily dose is given and increased weekly for 5 weeks, until the maximum daily dose is reached.

Price

The list price is £89.04 (excluding VAT) for a titration pack (that is, 42 x 30‑mg tablets) and £190.80 (excluding VAT) for a pack of 90 x 120‑mg tablets. Costs may vary in different settings because of negotiated procurement discounts.

  • National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)