What are the potential side effects of DMSO. How is dimethyl sulfoxide used medically. What conditions can DMSO potentially treat. Is DMSO safe for topical use. What precautions should be taken when using DMSO.

What is DMSO and How Does it Work?

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a colorless chemical solvent with unique properties that have made it the subject of ongoing medical research. Originally discovered as a by-product of paper production in 19th century Germany, DMSO gained attention in the 1960s when scientists recognized its ability to penetrate biological membranes, including human skin.

This remarkable penetrative ability allows DMSO to act as a transporter, facilitating the passage of small molecules through the skin and into the body. As a result, DMSO has been studied for various potential medical applications, both as a treatment in its own right and as a vehicle for delivering other drugs topically.

Key Properties of DMSO:

• Highly penetrative – can pass through skin and other membranes
• Acts as a solvent – can dissolve and transport other substances
• Anti-inflammatory properties
• Potential analgesic (pain-relieving) effects

FDA-Approved Uses of DMSO

Despite decades of research into its potential applications, DMSO currently has only one FDA-approved use in the United States. In the late 1970s, the FDA approved DMSO for the treatment of interstitial cystitis, a chronic bladder condition characterized by pain and pressure in the bladder area.

For patients with interstitial cystitis, DMSO is administered as a bladder installation (also known as a bladder wash) under the brand name RIMSO-50. This treatment has been shown to provide several benefits:

• Reducing pain associated with interstitial cystitis
• Helping to relax the bladder
• Increasing bladder capacity

While this remains the only FDA-approved use for DMSO, research continues into its potential benefits for other conditions.

Potential Off-Label Uses and Benefits of DMSO

Beyond its approved use for interstitial cystitis, DMSO has been investigated for a wide range of potential medical applications. While many of these uses lack sufficient evidence to support widespread adoption, some promising areas of research include:

Pain and Inflammation Relief

DMSO’s ability to penetrate the skin easily has led to its use as an alternative treatment for various types of pain and inflammation. Some people apply DMSO topically to treat conditions such as arthritis, muscle pain, and general inflammation. However, more research is needed to conclusively determine its effectiveness for these purposes.

Cancer Treatment Support

Some studies have explored the potential of DMSO in cancer treatment. A 2020 study published in the Journal of Medical Discovery found evidence suggesting that DMSO might have inhibitory effects on certain cancer cells. Additionally, there has been interest in using DMSO to reduce chemotherapy medication leakage during administration. However, it’s important to note that research in this area is still in its early stages, and much more investigation is needed before any definitive conclusions can be drawn.

Drug Delivery Vehicle

DMSO’s ability to penetrate the skin and carry other substances with it has led to research into its potential as a vehicle for administering topical medications. This property could potentially enhance the effectiveness of certain drugs by improving their absorption through the skin.

Common Side Effects of DMSO

While DMSO is generally considered to have a relatively low toxicity profile, it can cause a range of side effects, particularly when used in higher doses or concentrations. The severity of these side effects often correlates directly with the amount of DMSO used.

Mild Side Effects

One of the most commonly reported side effects of DMSO use is a distinctive taste and odor, often described as similar to garlic or oysters. This effect can be noticeable in the mouth, throat, and breath, even when DMSO is applied topically. Other mild side effects may include:

• Skin irritation or itching at the application site
• Dry or scaly skin
• Headache
• Dizziness

More Severe Side Effects

In some cases, particularly with higher doses or prolonged use, more severe side effects may occur. These can include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea
• Fever or chills
• Reduced heart rate
• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)
• Changes in blood pressure

It’s crucial to note that the risk and severity of side effects can increase with higher concentrations or amounts of DMSO. Therefore, it’s essential to use DMSO only under the guidance of a healthcare professional and at the recommended dosage.

Potential Risks and Interactions of DMSO

While DMSO has shown promise in various applications, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and interactions associated with its use. As with any medication or treatment, DMSO can interact with other substances and may not be suitable for everyone.

Drug Interactions

DMSO has the potential to interact with several types of medications, potentially altering their effects or increasing the risk of side effects. Some medications that may interact with DMSO include:

• Sedatives
• Blood thinners (anticoagulants)
• Steroids
• Certain painkillers

These interactions can potentially lead to increased sedation, changes in blood clotting, or alterations in the effectiveness of other medications. It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you’re taking before using DMSO.

Increased Absorption of Other Substances

Due to its ability to penetrate the skin and carry other substances with it, DMSO can potentially increase the absorption of other chemicals or contaminants present on the skin. This property, while beneficial in some contexts, can also pose risks if harmful substances are inadvertently absorbed along with the DMSO.

Quality and Purity Concerns

Because DMSO is often marketed as an alternative treatment, it’s relatively easy to purchase online or from various retailers. However, the quality and purity of these products can vary significantly. Using impure or contaminated DMSO can increase the risk of adverse reactions or introduce harmful substances into the body.

Potential for Overuse

The accessibility of DMSO and its reputation as a “miracle” treatment in some alternative medicine circles can lead to potential overuse. Using DMSO without proper medical supervision or in excessive amounts can increase the risk of side effects and potentially harmful interactions.

How is DMSO Administered?

The method of DMSO administration can vary depending on its intended use and the condition being treated. Common methods of administration include:

Topical Application

For many off-label uses, DMSO is applied directly to the skin. It may be used in the form of:

• Gels
• Creams
• Liquids
• Solutions

When applied topically, DMSO is typically mixed with other ingredients or diluted to reduce the risk of skin irritation. The concentration of DMSO in these products can vary widely, and it’s important to follow the instructions provided or consult with a healthcare professional about appropriate usage.

Bladder Instillation

For its FDA-approved use in treating interstitial cystitis, DMSO is administered as a bladder instillation. This procedure involves inserting a catheter into the bladder and introducing the DMSO solution directly into the bladder. This treatment is typically performed by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting.

Other Routes of Administration

In some research contexts or experimental treatments, DMSO may be administered through other routes, such as:

• Intravenous injection
• Oral consumption
• Inhalation

However, these methods of administration are generally not recommended for general use due to potential risks and lack of sufficient safety data.

Precautions and Considerations When Using DMSO

While DMSO has shown potential in various medical applications, it’s crucial to approach its use with caution and under appropriate medical supervision. Here are some important precautions and considerations to keep in mind:

Consult a Healthcare Professional

Before using DMSO for any purpose, it’s essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider. They can help assess whether DMSO is appropriate for your specific situation, considering factors such as:

• Your overall health status
• Any existing medical conditions
• Medications you’re currently taking
• Potential risks and benefits

Use Only as Directed

If DMSO use is recommended by a healthcare professional, it’s crucial to follow their instructions carefully. This includes adhering to the recommended dosage, frequency of use, and method of application. Using DMSO in higher concentrations or more frequently than advised can increase the risk of side effects and potential complications.

Be Aware of Quality and Purity

If purchasing DMSO products, especially for topical use, it’s important to ensure you’re getting a high-quality, pharmaceutical-grade product. Look for products that have been third-party tested for purity and are free from contaminants. Avoid industrial-grade DMSO, which may contain impurities that could be harmful when absorbed through the skin.

Watch for Side Effects

Monitor yourself closely for any side effects when using DMSO, especially when first starting treatment. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, discontinue use and consult your healthcare provider promptly.

Avoid Use During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

The safety of DMSO during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been well-established. It’s generally recommended to avoid DMSO use during these periods unless specifically advised by a healthcare provider.

Be Cautious with Other Medications and Substances

Remember that DMSO can interact with various medications and can increase the absorption of other substances through the skin. Be cautious about applying other topical products or medications to areas where you’ve used DMSO, and inform all healthcare providers about your DMSO use.

Maintain Proper Skin Care

When using DMSO topically, it’s important to keep the application area clean and dry. Avoid applying DMSO to broken or irritated skin, and be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before and after application.

The Future of DMSO Research and Potential Applications

Despite being discovered over a century ago, DMSO continues to be a subject of ongoing scientific interest and research. Its unique properties and potential applications in various fields of medicine make it an intriguing compound for further study. Here are some areas where DMSO research is ongoing or may develop in the future:

Enhanced Drug Delivery Systems

DMSO’s ability to penetrate biological membranes and carry other substances with it continues to be of interest in the field of drug delivery. Researchers are exploring ways to use DMSO or similar compounds to enhance the absorption and effectiveness of various medications, particularly those applied topically or targeting specific tissues.

Cancer Research

While still in early stages, research into DMSO’s potential effects on cancer cells is ongoing. Scientists are investigating whether DMSO could play a role in enhancing the effectiveness of certain cancer treatments or potentially have direct anti-cancer properties of its own.

Neuroprotective Properties

Some studies have suggested that DMSO may have neuroprotective effects, potentially helping to protect nerve cells from damage. This could have implications for the treatment of various neurological conditions, though much more research is needed in this area.

Anti-Inflammatory Applications

Given its known anti-inflammatory properties, researchers continue to explore potential applications of DMSO in treating various inflammatory conditions. This could include both topical treatments for localized inflammation and potentially systemic applications for more widespread inflammatory disorders.

Cryopreservation

DMSO is already used in some cryopreservation applications, helping to protect cells from damage during freezing. Ongoing research is looking at ways to optimize its use in this field, which could have implications for organ preservation, stem cell storage, and other areas of medical research.

Novel Formulations and Delivery Methods

As research into DMSO continues, scientists are also exploring new formulations and delivery methods that could enhance its effectiveness while minimizing potential side effects. This could include novel topical preparations, controlled-release formulations, or combinations with other compounds.

While the future of DMSO research holds promise, it’s important to approach new findings with cautious optimism. As with any medical research, rigorous clinical trials and peer-reviewed studies will be necessary to establish the safety and efficacy of new DMSO applications before they can be widely adopted in clinical practice.

In conclusion, DMSO remains a fascinating compound with a unique set of properties that continue to intrigue researchers and clinicians alike. While its current FDA-approved use is limited to the treatment of interstitial cystitis, ongoing research may uncover new potential applications in various fields of medicine. However, it’s crucial to remember that despite its potential, DMSO is not a miracle cure-all, and its use should always be approached with caution and under appropriate medical supervision. As research progresses, we may gain a clearer understanding of both the benefits and risks associated with this intriguing substance, potentially opening up new avenues for its use in medical treatment.

Uses, Benefits, Risks, and More

DMSO (Dimethyl Sulfoxide): Uses, Benefits, Risks, and More

• Health Conditions
  • Featured
    • Breast Cancer
    • IBD
    • Migraine
    • Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
    • Rheumatoid Arthritis
    • Type 2 Diabetes
  • Articles
    • Acid Reflux
    • ADHD
    • Allergies
    • Alzheimer’s & Dementia
    • Bipolar Disorder
    • Cancer
    • Crohn’s Disease
    • Chronic Pain
    • Cold & Flu
    • COPD
    • Depression
    • Fibromyalgia
    • Heart Disease
    • High Cholesterol
    • HIV
    • Hypertension
    • IPF
    • Osteoarthritis
    • Psoriasis
    • Skin Disorders and Care
    • STDs
• Discover
  • Wellness Topics
    • Nutrition
    • Fitness
    • Skin Care
    • Sexual Health
    • Women’s Health
    • Mental Well-Being
    • Sleep
  • Product Reviews
    • Vitamins & Supplements
    • Sleep
    • Mental Health
    • Nutrition
    • At-Home Testing
    • CBD
    • Men’s Health
  • Original Series
    • Fresh Food Fast
    • Diagnosis Diaries
    • You’re Not Alone
    • Present Tense
  • Video Series
    • Youth in Focus
    • Healthy Harvest
    • No More Silence
    • Future of Health
• Plan
  • Health Challenges
    • Mindful Eating
    • Sugar Savvy
    • Move Your Body
    • Gut Health
    • Mood Foods
    • Align Your Spine
  • Find Care
    • Primary Care
    • Mental Health
    • OB-GYN
    • Dermatologists
    • Neurologists
    • Cardiologists
    • Orthopedists
  • Lifestyle Quizzes
    • Weight Management
    • Am I Depressed? A Quiz for Teens
    • Are You a Workaholic?
    • How Well Do You Sleep?
  • Tools & Resources
    • Health News
    • Find a Diet
    • Find Healthy Snacks
    • Drugs A-Z
    • Health A-Z
• Connect
  • • Breast Cancer
    • Inflammatory Bowel Disease
    • Psoriatic Arthritis
    • Migraine
    • Multiple Sclerosis
    • Psoriasis

Medically reviewed by Angelica Balingit, MD — By Jessica DiGiacinto and Joe Bowman — Updated on May 16, 2023

DMSO is a colorless chemical solvent that may have many medical uses but is currently only approved by the FDA to treat interstitial cystitis.

The story of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is an unusual one. This by-product of the paper making process was discovered in Germany in the late 19th century. It’s a colorless liquid that gained notoriety for its ability to penetrate the skin and other biological membranes.

Scientists discovered that they could use DMSO as a transportation device to pass small molecules through skin in the 1960s. Since then, scientists have researched the potential benefits and risks of using DMSO to treat a variety of conditions. This research is ongoing.

DMSO was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)to treat interstitial cystitis (a chronic bladder issue) under the brand name RIMSO-50.

The compound has no other approved uses, but it’s been purported to be a treatment for:

• arthritis
• cancer
• chemotherapy side effects
• general pain

Because it absorbs easily into the skin, it’s also been studied as a vehicle for administering topical drugs.

In the late 70s, the FDA approved DMSO to help treat interstitial cystitis. It remains the only FDA-approved bladder installation (or bladder wash) for this condition. For individuals living with interstitial cystitis, DMSO has been shown to:

• ease pain due to the condition
• help relax the bladder
• increase bladder capacity

When it comes to off-label uses, DMSO is often employed as an alternative treatment to reduce inflammation and pain.

Because it absorbs easily into the skin, DMSO may be a beneficial alternative to other pain medications. However, further investigation into this area is needed before any conclusions can be drawn.

DMSO has also been touted for its ability to reduce the amount of leakage during chemotherapy administration, but more studies, and real-world usage, need to be done before it can be labeled as a trusted method.

Additionally, there has been some research into DMSO’s benefits when it comes to inhibiting cancer cells. A 2020 study published in the Journal of Medical Discovery found evidence of benefit. However, research is just beginning in this area, so many more studies need to be done before any conclusions can be made.

While many of the reported side effects of taking DMSO are mild, the amount of DMSO someone takes is directly correlated to the severity of the reaction.

One common side effect is the taste of garlic in the mouth and throat.

More severe side effects include:

• headache
• nausea
• vomiting
• stomach ache
• diarrhea
• fever
• chills
• a lowered heart rate
• itching
• rash
• rough or thickened skin

Risks

Because it’s seen as a more alternative treatment, DMSO is easy to find and buy online. However, buying this product and using it without a healthcare professional’s supervision could increase the likelihood of overuse.

DMSO may also increase the effect of a few medications, which could produce serious reactions in some people. A few medications DMSO may affect include:

• sedatives
• blood thinners
• steroids

DMSO can be administered

• topically, via a gel or solution
• as a bladder wash, via a catheter (for interstitial cystitis)

As with any alternative treatment, it’s always advised to talk with a doctor before deciding to purchase any product that contains DMSO. Dosage is directly connected to the severity of possible side effects.

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a chemical solvent that is sometimes used to help reduce inflammation and pain, and may also be beneficial in reducing leakage during chemotherapy treatment.

It has been FDA approved to treat only one condition: interstitial cystitis.

Because of possible interactions with other common medications, and lack of definitive research into its benefits, DMSO should not be used without medical supervision.

Last medically reviewed on February 1, 2022

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

• Capriotti K, et al. (2012). Dimethyl sulfoxide: History, chemistry, and clinical
  utility in dermatology.
  ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3460663/
• Dimethylsulfoxide. (2020).
  mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/dimethylsulfoxide
• DMSO. (2009).
  ichelp.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/DMSO-Feb-2009.pdf
• Elisia I, et al. (2016). DMSO represses inflammatory cytokine production from human blood cells and reduces autoimmune arthritis.
  ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4816398/
• Madsen BK, et al. (2018). Adverse reactions of dimethyl sulfoxide in humans: A systematic review.
  ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6707402/
• Molecule of the week archive: Dimethyl sulfoxide. (2021).
  acs.org/content/acs/en/molecule-of-the-week/archive/d/dimethyl-sulfoxide.html?cid=home_motw
• Tang H, et al. (2020). DMSO inhibits growth and induces apoptosis through extrinsic pathway in human cancer cells.
  https://www.proquest.com/openview/06527232a660b6867effa2ff8f68deed/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=2050635
• Understanding unapproved use of approved drugs “off-label.” (2018).
  fda.gov/patients/learn-about-expanded-access-and-other-treatment-options/understanding-unapproved-use-approved-drugs-label
• Wengström Y, et al. (2008). European oncology nursing society extravasation guidelines.
  sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1462388908001002
• What is interstitial cystitis(IC)/bladder pain syndrome? (n.d.).
  urologyhealth.org/urology-a-z/i/interstitial-cystitis

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

May 16, 2023

Written By

Jessica DiGiacinto, Joe Bowman

Edited By

Jessica DiGiacinto

Copy Edited By

Delores Smith-Johnson

Feb 1, 2022

Medically Reviewed By

Angelica Balingit, MD

VIEW ALL HISTORY

Share this article

Medically reviewed by Angelica Balingit, MD — By Jessica DiGiacinto and Joe Bowman — Updated on May 16, 2023

Read this next

• What Is Cystitis?

  Medically reviewed by University of Illinois

  Cystitis is inflammation of the bladder. Most often it is caused by a bacterial infection known as a urinary tract infection (UTI).

  READ MORE

• What Are the Symptoms of Interstitial Cystitis?

  Medically reviewed by University of Illinois

  READ MORE

• Interstitial Cystitis

  Medically reviewed by Carissa Stephens, R.N., CCRN, CPN

  Interstitial cystitis is a chronic inflammation of the bladder that can cause pelvic pain, frequent urination, and incontinence. Pain can be mild or…

  READ MORE

• Lime and Sun Don’t Always Mix: Beware the ‘Margarita Burn’ This Summer

  Margarita burn is a skin reaction that occurs when lime juice makes contact with the skin and is exposed to sunlight. Most reactions from margarita…

  READ MORE

• What Is Panniculitis and How Is It Treated?

  Panniculitis is a group of conditions that cause painful bumps (nodules) to form under your skin, often on your legs and feet. Learn more.

  READ MORE

• Urticaria Pigmentosa

  Medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAANP

  Urticaria pigmentosa is a skin condition that causes lesions and itchy skin. This disease is most common in infants and children, but adults may be…

  READ MORE

• What Causes Dark Knuckles and How Can You Treat Them?

  Medically reviewed by Shilpa Amin, M.D., CAQ, FAAFP

  Dark knuckles can be caused by different skin conditions, medical conditions, genetics, and more. Learn more about the causes, treatments, and natural…

  READ MORE

• Sunburned Eyelids: What You Should Know

  Medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAANP

  You don’t need to be on the beach for sunburned eyelids to occur. Any time you’re outside in the sun for a prolonged period of time with your skin…

  READ MORE

• Sun Poisoning

  Medically reviewed by Catherine Hannan, M.D.

  Sun poisoning refers to a case of severe sunburn. It occurs after you’ve been exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun for an extended period of…

  READ MORE

DMSO – Health Information Library

Uses

DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) is a colorless, slightly oily liquid that is primarily used as an industrial solvent.

What Are Star Ratings?

Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.

For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.

3 Stars
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.

2 Stars
Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.

1 Star
For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.

This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:

How It Works

How to Use It

DMSO is not indicated for healthy people. Those who do use this substance should consult a doctor familiar with its use. Some physicians do not recommend the use of DMSO due to concerns about safety and questions about efficacy. The potential for contamination exists in some DMSO products designed for industrial uses. DMSO used topically is rapidly absorbed through intact skin. Therefore, the area of skin (and the hands applying DMSO) must be clean, because anything on the skin will also be absorbed along with the DMSO.

Where to Find It

DMSO is derived from trees as a manufacturing by-product from the processing of paper. Metabolites (breakdown products) of DMSO, such as the sulfide and sulfone forms, are naturally present in the human body. However, the role of these in the body is not clear.

Possible Deficiencies

DMSO is not an essential nutrient and it is not needed in the functions of a healthy body; therefore, deficiencies do not exist.

Interactions

Interactions with Supplements, Foods, & Other Compounds

At the time of writing, there were no well-known supplement or food interactions with this supplement.

Interactions with Medicines

As of the last update, we found no reported interactions between this supplement and medicines. It is possible that unknown interactions exist. If you take medication, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a new supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.

The Drug-Nutrient Interactions table may not include every possible interaction. Taking medicines with meals, on an empty stomach, or with alcohol may influence their effects. For details, refer to the manufacturers’ package information as these are not covered in this table. If you take medications, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.

Side Effects

Side Effects

DMSO frequently causes a garlic-like body odor and taste in the mouth. Other reported side effects include stomach upset, sensitivity to light, visual disturbances, and headache. Skin irritation can develop at the site where DMSO is applied topically. Only highly purified, properly diluted DMSO should be used and the skin site and applying hand should be thoroughly cleaned before application, because the solvent properties of DMSO allow contaminants to be absorbed through the skin and transported into the bloodstream. Improperly diluted DMSO can also burn the skin. Check with a healthcare professional for appropriate use.

• Top of the page

• Next Section:

  How It Works

Health Information Library

What helps, active substance, contraindications

Publication date: 06/15/2023

THERE ARE CONTRAINDICATIONS. POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS. A SPECIALIST’S CONSULTATION IS NECESSARY.Pain in the jointsPain in the joints and musclesInflammation of the jointsFor joints and ligaments

3 All authors

Article content

• Dolobene: composition
• Dolobene: contraindications
• Dolobene or Heparin ointment: which is better?
• Dolobene or Diclofenac: which is better?
• Dolobene or Voltaren: which is better?
• Dolgit or Dolobene: which is better?
• Dolobene or Fastum gel: which is better?
• Dolobene or Traumeel: which is better?
• Summary
• Ask an expert on the topic of the article

I wonder if there is a person on earth who has escaped such an injury as a bruise? We think not. ..

Bruises are characterized by mechanical damage without breaking the integrity of the skin. They are accompanied by pain, swelling and bruising. All these symptoms occur due to vascular damage and activation of the inflammation process. As a rule, bruises are not dangerous and pass at home in a week. But in case of an injury to the head or internal organs, it is imperative to see a doctor.

At home, Dolobene helps to cope with the consequences of bruises. The pharmacist talks about its composition and contraindications and compares it with other means: Heparin ointment, Diclofenac, Voltaren, Dolgit, Fastum gel and Traumeel.

Dolobene: Composition

Dolobene is a multicomponent gel for external use. The composition of Dolobene includes not one active ingredient, but three:

• Sodium heparin has anti-inflammatory, regenerating and antithrombotic effects.
• Dexpanthenol – in the skin turns into vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) and improves the processes of regeneration and repair of damaged tissues.
• Dimethyl sulfoxide 90% solution (DMSO) – has a local analgesic, decongestant and anti-inflammatory effect. It penetrates well through the skin, mucous membranes, improves microcirculation in tissues and increases the permeability of biological membranes for drugs.

The assortment of modern pharmacies has taught visitors that the same medicine can be in different dosage forms. But the drug Dolobene gel is available in only one form, you should not look for ointment, cream or tablets in Dolobene pharmacies.

All products Dolobene

5 reviews

Dolobene: contraindications

Dolobene should not be used during pregnancy, as there are no studies on the use of the drug in such patients. In addition, the gel is contraindicated in the following cases:

• hypersensitivity to drug components;
• open skin lesions;
• severe diseases of the liver and kidneys;
• serious diseases of the heart and blood vessels;
• bronchial asthma;
• children under 5 years of age;
• lactation.

Dolobene or Heparin ointment: which is better?

Heparin ointment also contains three active ingredients: sodium heparin, benzocaine, benzyl nicotinate. The common component with Dolobene in the ointment is only Heparin sodium.

Dolobene – what helps? Gel is prescribed for bruises, closed injuries and inflammation of soft tissues, tendons and joints. Dolobene helps with bruises, swelling and pain in acute neuralgia.

Heparin ointment has different indications due to a different composition. The ointment is used for inflammatory diseases of the veins (thrombophlebitis, periphlebitis, phlebitis after injections, hemorrhoids), as well as for superficial mastitis, infiltrates, edema, injuries and bruises.

Dolobene contains 500 IU/g of heparin and Heparin Ointment contains 100 IU/g. According to the instructions in the RLS, the penetration of heparin through healthy skin is dose-dependent and has been confirmed for doses of 300 IU/g. The effectiveness of heparin in Doloben is higher due to the dosage and content of the “conductor” DMSO in the gel composition.

Heparin ointment has its own advantages: it has a pronounced analgesic effect due to the local anesthetic benzocaine. In addition, it can be used for bruises and bruises in children older than 1 year, unlike Dolobene, which is used only after 5 years.

Dolobene or Diclofenac: which is better?

Diclofenac is the “gold standard” of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The active substance of the same name comes in various forms for external use: gel, ointment, cream, transdermal patch. Diclofenac has a strong anti-inflammatory effect, so it is prescribed for diseases of the spine and joints, as well as to relieve pain and inflammation due to sprains, bruises and injuries.

The drugs act differently, for example, Dolobene will not help with osteochondrosis, it has an insufficient anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect. But swelling and hematoma after a bruise will pass with it faster than with Diclofenac ointment or gel.

All products Diclofenac

20 reviews

Dolobene or Voltaren: which is better?

Voltaren is an original drug with the active ingredient diclofenac. The above information about Diclofenac is fully applicable to it: Voltaren topical agents relieve inflammation and pain well, and Dolobene improves microcirculation, relieves swelling, dissolves blood clots and promotes tissue repair.

Voltaren topical preparations can only be used in children from 12 years of age. For pregnant women, they can be prescribed by a doctor only up to the 20th week of pregnancy.

All products Voltaren Emulgel

21 reviews

Dolgit or Dolobene: which is better?

Dolgit contains another non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, ibuprofen. Dolgit is available in the form of a gel and cream. The drug is approved for use in children from 14 years of age, pregnant women are prescribed only Dolgit gel in the I and II trimester according to indications and under the supervision of a doctor, the cream is contraindicated throughout pregnancy.

The property of ibuprofen to reduce pain and inflammation is used to treat arthritis, osteoarthritis, sciatica, etc. Like Dolobene, Dolgit relieves pain after injuries and bruises. But it does not affect the restoration of tissues and the improvement of blood circulation in the damaged area.

All products Dolgit

20 reviews

Dolobene or Fastum gel: which is better?

The next representative of NSAIDs for the treatment of pain and inflammation is Fastum gel with the active ingredient ketoprofen. Like Dolobene, it has one dosage form in the form of a gel for external use.

Ketoprofen has the most powerful analgesic effect among NSAIDs, so it is used for severe pain as a result of injuries, including bruises, sprains and muscles, as well as for lumbago and rheumatic pains. The gel is contraindicated in pregnancy in the third trimester and in children under 12 years of age.

Fastum causes photosensitivity. When using it, you should protect the skin from the sun during treatment and for another two weeks after it. With mild or moderate pain, bruising and swelling, it is better to use Dolobene.

All products Fastum gel

20 reviews

Dolobene or Traumeel: which is better?

Traumeel S is a homeopathic remedy. Active substances are 12 vegetable and 2 mineral components. Their combination acts in synergy and has an anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect.

Traumeel S is available as an ointment and is approved for use by adults and children from 3 years of age. The ointment eliminates swelling, pain and inflammation in case of damage to muscles, tendons, ligaments; after operations; with bruises, sprains, dislocations.

The ointment can be used in pregnant women if the expected benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risk to the fetus and child. Contraindications for Traumeel S are autoimmune diseases and tuberculosis.

Traumeel S ointment and Dolobene gel are available without a doctor’s prescription. The patient can consult a pharmacy or his doctor and purchase one of the drugs based on his preferences.

All products Traumeel

20 reviews

Summary

• Dolobene is a multicomponent gel for external use. It contains sodium heparin, dexpanthenol and dimethyl sulfoxide. The gel is prescribed for bruises, closed injuries and inflammation of soft tissues, tendons and joints. Dolobene helps with bruises, swelling and pain in acute neuralgia.
• Dolobene should not be used during pregnancy, as there are no studies on the use of the drug in such patients.
• Heparin ointment also contains three active ingredients: sodium heparin, benzocaine, benzyl nicotinate. The ointment is used for inflammatory diseases of the veins (thrombophlebitis, periphlebitis, phlebitis after injections, hemorrhoids), as well as for superficial mastitis, infiltrates, edema, injuries and bruises.
• Voltaren with Diclofenac, as representatives of NSAIDs, act differently. For example, Dolobene will not help with osteochondrosis, it has an insufficient anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect. But swelling and hematoma after a bruise will pass with it faster than with an ointment or gel with diclofenac.
• Dolgit relieves pain after injuries and bruises. But it does not affect the restoration of tissues and the improvement of blood circulation in the damaged area.
• Ketoprofen has the most powerful analgesic effect among NSAIDs, so it is used for severe pain as a result of trauma, including bruises, sprains and muscles, as well as for lumbago and rheumatic pains.
• Traumeel S is a homeopathic remedy. The ointment eliminates swelling, pain and inflammation in case of damage to muscles, tendons, ligaments; after operations; with bruises, sprains, dislocations. The patient can consult a pharmacy or his doctor and purchase one of the drugs based on his preferences.

Ask an expert about the topic of the article

Still have questions? Ask them in the comments below and our experts will answer you. There you can also share your experience with other Megatips readers.

Managing editor

Ripatti Yuliya Igorevna,

Expert pharmacist

Share mega advice

Like the article? Tell mom, dad, grandma and aunt Galya from the third entrance

Copy link

Theraflex Chondrocream forte cream 50g with free home delivery from VkusVill

VkusVill

wadded shade color with the smell of dimethyl sulfoxide.

Theraflex Chondrocream forte cream 50g / Pharmacy

Waiting for evaluation

from the partner “Apteka Dialog Sever”

Features of the “Pharmacy” category Online payment only

We deliver partners’ medical products. Can be ordered separately, can be together with the products. Delivery times are the same.

Pharmaceutical partner licenses

Description

Cream from light yellow with a greenish tint to yellow with a greenish tint, with a smell of dimethyl sulfoxide.

Indications for use

The drug is recommended for use as part of complex therapy for degenerative-dystrophic diseases of the musculoskeletal system: osteoarthritis, osteochondrosis of the spine, and other joint diseases accompanied by pain.