Regardless of what you might have heard about dimethyl sulfoxide or DMSO, it has caused you to ask, What is DMSO? DMSO is both a solvent and a biological penetrant with the unique ability to bind with other molecules and transmit them through protective skin barriers and to the site of pain or other targeted area. All by simply rubbing into the area of the surface skin and without the need for an injection.
The story of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a new emerging concept. This herbal solution derived from trees was discovered from a pulp-to-paper system in Germany towards the end of the 19th century. It is a colorless liquid that has gained fame for its ability to penetrate the skin and other protective barriers. Researchers and biologists discovered that they could use DMSO as a carrier for molecules from outside the body to inside the body in the 1960s via topical application. Since then, scientists have studied the benefits and risks of using DMSO to treat many biological challenges. The investigation is an ongoing process.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved DMSO to treat interstitial cystitis (a chronic bladder problem) under the brand name RIMSO-50. The compound has no other approved uses, but is believed to be a treatment for:
- arthritis
- cancer
- side effects of chemotherapy
- general pain
Because it easily penetrates the skin, it has been studied as a vehicle for topical drug delivery.
In the late 1970s, the FDA approved DMSO to help treat interstitial cystitis. It remains the only FDA-approved colon (or bowel) treatment for this condition. For people living with interstitial cystitis, DMSO has been shown to:
- reduce the pain due to the condition
- help calm the bladder
- increase bowel strength
In terms of symptomatic use, DMSO is often used as an alternative treatment to reduce inflammation and pain. Because it easily penetrates the skin, DMSO can be a useful alternative to other pain relievers. However, further research in this area is necessary before any conclusions can be drawn. DMSO has also been touted for its ability to reduce fluid retention during chemotherapy, but more studies and real-world use are needed before it can be called a reliable method.
Additionally, research has been done on the benefits of DMSO when it comes to preventing cancer cells. A 2020 study published in the Journal of Medical Discovery found evidence of benefits. However, research is still in its primal stages in this area, so more studies are needed before any solid conclusions can be drawn.
Although most of the reported side effects of taking DMSO are mild, the amount of DMSO a person takes directly affects the reaction.
The most common side effect is a garlic taste in the mouth and throat. More serious side effects include:
- headache
- nausea
- vomiting
- stomach ache
- diarrhea
- fever
- cold
- low heart rate
- the pain
- explosion
- hard skin
Because it is considered an alternative medicine, DMSO may be easy to find and buy online. However, buying this product and using it without the supervision of a medical professional can increase the risk of improper use or overdose.
DMSO can also increase the effects of certain medications, which can cause adverse reactions in some people.
A few uses that DMSO may offer include:
- a remedy
- anti-coagulant
- steroidal response
DMSO can be used:
- as directed
- in liquid solution
- gel form
- as bladder lavage
- via catheter (for interstitial cystitis)
As with any other treatment, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor before you decide to buy any product that contains DMSO. The dosage is directly related to the severity of the possible side effects.
Conclusion
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a chemical solvent that is sometimes used to help reduce inflammation and pain and can also be useful for reducing side effects associated with chemotherapy.
It is approved by the FDA to treat only one condition: interstitial cystitis. Due to possible interactions with other common medications and lack of clear research on its benefits, DMSO should not be used without medical supervision.