What Is Dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO)?

Dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) is an organic compound known for its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Originally developed as a solvent, it has since been studied for a wide range of medical applications—from managing chronic pain to treating bladder conditions.

DMSO works by penetrating the skin and tissues rapidly, carrying other substances along with it. This property has led to its use in pain relief, chemotherapy support, and more. While DMSO is not approved for all health conditions, it remains an intriguing option, especially for chronic and inflammatory issues.

Top Health Benefits and Uses of DMSO

1. Pain Management for Chronic Conditions

DMSO has demonstrated the ability to block nerve signals and reduce inflammation, making it a potential solution for various pain-related conditions. It may be useful in treating:

  • Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): A condition causing chronic pain after injury or surgery.

  • Osteoarthritis: Characterized by joint inflammation and stiffness.

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune condition that leads to joint pain and damage.

Topical DMSO has been tested for these uses, but the research is still limited and inconsistent. While some patients report relief, large-scale clinical trials are still needed.

2. Protects Against Chemotherapy-Related Skin Damage

One of the lesser-known uses of DMSO is in preventing extravasation—a dangerous complication where chemotherapy drugs leak into surrounding tissues. This can cause swelling, pain, and tissue necrosis.

Topical DMSO has been used to manage extravasation caused by drugs such as:

  • Doxorubicin (Adriamycin)

  • Dactinomycin (Cosmegen)

  • Vinblastine (Velban)

  • Vincristine (Oncovin)

Although promising, more research is needed before DMSO can be widely recommended for this use.

3. FDA-Approved for Interstitial Cystitis

The only FDA-approved medical use of DMSO is for treating interstitial cystitis—a chronic bladder condition characterized by pelvic pain, frequent urination, and discomfort.

In this case, DMSO is administered directly into the bladder using a catheter. It helps:

  • Reduce inflammation of the bladder lining

  • Relieve pelvic and urinary pain

  • Improve bladder capacity

This treatment, known by the brand name Rimso-50, uses a 50% DMSO solution and is available by prescription.

Other Promising Applications of DMSO

Amyloidosis

This rare condition occurs when abnormal protein buildup damages organs. DMSO has been explored as a potential treatment, though current evidence is limited to small-scale studies.

Cancer Support

Preliminary research suggests that DMSO may:

  • Inhibit cancer cell growth

  • Support the effects of chemotherapy medications

However, no major clinical trials have confirmed these benefits, and DMSO is not an approved cancer treatment.

Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Topical DMSO has shown potential in treating chronic foot ulcers in individuals with diabetes. Its anti-inflammatory and tissue-penetrating properties may aid healing, though more research is required.

Peptic Ulcers

Oral DMSO has been associated with a reduced risk of recurring stomach ulcers. Compared to standard treatments, it may offer protective benefits, but human studies are still limited.

Other Conditions Being Studied

  • Burns

  • Pressure ulcers

  • Tension headaches

While anecdotal reports are positive, none of these uses have strong scientific backing yet.

How To Use DMSO Safely

Forms of DMSO Available

DMSO can be administered in several ways:

  • Topical: Creams, gels, or liquids (5% to 90% concentration)

  • Oral: Less common and controversial due to limited research

  • Injection: Into soft tissue or veins (used in clinical settings only)

  • Intravesical: Inserted into the bladder (prescription only)

Many DMSO products are available over the counter, but the most medically validated form is Rimso-50.

Recommended Dosage

Due to the limited regulation and varying uses, there is no universal dosage guideline. The only standardized dosage is for the FDA-approved 50% intravesical solution used to treat bladder pain.

Important note:
If you're using DMSO for other purposes, speak with a healthcare provider to determine the proper concentration and application frequency.

Safety Considerations and Warnings

Is DMSO Safe?

DMSO is generally considered safe when used appropriately, but certain forms can be hazardous:

  • Industrial-grade DMSO (used in manufacturing) may contain harmful impurities and should never be used on or in the body.

  • DMSO has not been proven safe for use in pregnant or breastfeeding individuals.

Supplement Quality

Because supplements are not regulated like prescription drugs, always choose DMSO products tested by independent organizations such as:

  • USP (United States Pharmacopeia)

  • NSF International

  • ConsumerLab.com

These seals confirm product purity and ingredient accuracy.

Potential Drug Interactions

Though formal interaction studies are lacking, DMSO may affect drugs that have similar biological effects. Possible interactions include:

  • Diuretics: May intensify urination

  • Antiplatelet drugs: May increase bleeding risk

  • Muscle relaxants: Could enhance sedative effects

Consult your provider if you're on any chronic medications.

Can You Overdose on DMSO?

There is no official maximum dose, but overuse can increase the risk of side effects, especially if using non-medical-grade products. Always follow usage instructions and medical advice.

Side Effects of DMSO

Common side effects vary based on form and dosage. They include:

1. Odor Issues

  • Garlic-like smell on breath or skin

2. Skin Reactions

  • Rash, itching, burning, or blistering

3. Gastrointestinal Issues

  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation

4. Neurological Symptoms

  • Drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, fatigue

5. Cardiovascular Concerns

  • Irregular heartbeat, blood pressure changes

6. Respiratory Symptoms

  • Sore throat, flu-like symptoms, breathing difficulty

Avoid using industrial-strength DMSO to minimize risks.

Controversy: The EMS Incident

In 1989, DMSO was linked to a rare but serious condition called eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome (EMS). This neurological condition caused:

  • Joint and muscle pain

  • Skin inflammation

  • Heart rhythm problems

The outbreak was traced to contaminated DMSO from a single manufacturer in Japan. The FDA temporarily banned DMSO but reapproved it in 1994 after safety measures were put in place.

Quick Summary

DMSO is a versatile compound with proven uses—like treating bladder pain syndrome—and emerging potential in pain relief, cancer support, and wound healing. While research is ongoing, early findings are promising.

Because of its potent effects and lack of regulation in supplement form, it's best to consult a healthcare provider before using DMSO for any condition.