Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a highly versatile solvent known for its miscibility with water and various organic solvents. It is referred to by several names, including methyl sulfoxide, sulfinylbismethane, and numerous trade names.
DMSO’s history dates back to the late 19th century when it was first discovered as a byproduct of the kraft process used in papermaking from wood pulp. Around the same time, Russian chemist Alexander Zaytsev synthesized DMSO by oxidizing dimethyl sulfide, another byproduct of the kraft process.
This compound finds extensive use as a laboratory and industrial solvent for various gases, synthetic fibers, paint, hydrocarbons, salts, and natural products. Its popularity stems from its aprotic nature, relative inertness, non-toxicity, and stability at high temperatures, making it a common choice for chemical reactions. Deuterated DMSO is particularly valuable as a solvent for NMR spectroscopy.
In the 1960s, researchers made a notable discovery regarding DMSO’s ability to penetrate human skin with minimal impact on tissues. This led to investigations on its potential as a carrier for medicines into the body, as an alternative to oral or injectable formulations. Consequently, DMSO was employed in some transdermal drug delivery systems, such as patches. In 1978, the US Food and Drug Administration granted approval for DMSO’s use in providing symptomatic relief for chronic interstitial cystitis (bladder pain syndrome), representing the only FDA-approved medicinal application of DMSO.
During the 1960s, DMSO was also explored as an alternative remedy for inflammation relief and as a solvent for introducing illicit drugs like cocaine into the body. It was even erroneously promoted as a cure for cancer. However, in 1965, the FDA halted many of these activities by banning clinical trials with DMSO due to its impact on the refractive index of laboratory animals’ eye lenses. The ban was lifted in 1980 after interest in the compound subsided.
A double-blind, placebo-controlled study conducted in Germany and published in 1995 did show some positive results. The study revealed that when 25% DMSO gel was topically applied to arthritic joints, it reduced pain during both rest and activity.
Today, researchers continue to investigate DMSO’s potential medical applications. In 2016, a study by Gerald Krystal and colleagues from the British Columbia Cancer Agency, the University of British Columbia, and Vancouver General Hospital revealed that DMSO could suppress the production of inflammatory cytokines from human blood cells, thereby reducing autoimmune arthritis. The study also explored DMSO’s possible anticancer activity, but conclusive evidence confirming this effect was not established.
Despite the lack of robust scientific evidence, there is a growing list of unapproved uses for DMSO, which includes conditions like osteoarthritis, tendonitis, bursitis, synovitis, mental illnesses, Down’s Syndrome, emphysema, cancer, scleroderma, Raynaud’s phenomenon, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, peripheral neuropathies, spinal cord injuries, brain trauma, strains, sprains, bruises, burns, wounds, and more. Particularly among highly active populations like athletes and military personnel, DMSO has gained popularity as a treatment for musculoskeletal injuries.
DMSO can be administered orally, topically, intravenously, intramuscularly, and intervesically (injected into the bladder).
One of DMSO’s notable properties is its excellent solvent capability, allowing it to be rapidly absorbed across the skin. As a solvent, it can dissolve a wide range of compounds and facilitate their transfer across the skin into the body.
When topically applied, DMSO demonstrates remarkable speed in entering the bloodstream, with effects being noticeable within minutes. Within seconds of application, a taste of the product may even be sensed in the mouth, indicating that it has swiftly traversed the salivary glands and entered the bloodstream. This rapid absorption underscores the efficiency of DMSO, which is an ethyl sulfur-based compound.
The sulfur component in DMSO plays a role in the methylation group and contributes to its function as a blood cleanser. Upon application to the skin, an increased blood flow sensation can be experienced, as if the area is becoming engorged with blood, allowing essential nutrients to facilitate tissue healing.
Additionally, DMSO has been found to aid in breaking down scar tissue, and some individuals have reported its potential benefits for tumors. However, its primary application lies in pain control, particularly for chronic pain lasting more than three months. For those dealing with consistent pain, DMSO for Humans can make a significant difference in their quality of life.