The succinate form of a
chemical is often used in
drugs or
vitamins to enhance chemical stability without compromising
bioavailability. For example, one of the main forms of
Vitamin E is d-alpha-
tocopheryl succinate. The succinic acid molecule is removed easily by stomach enzymes such as succinate
dehydrogenase, but while present it prevents the vitamin E from being
oxidized by the surrounding air.
Other drugs commonly provided in the succinate form include
sumatriptan (
Imitrex®) and
metoprolol (
Toprol®).