What is DMSO and how does it work? What are the potential benefits and risks of using DMSO for arthritis treatment? Get the answers to these questions and more in this detailed summary.

Understanding DMSO: A Versatile Chemical Compound

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a clear, odorless liquid that has gained attention for its potential medical applications. Originally used as an industrial solvent, DMSO was discovered in the 1960s to have the ability to rapidly penetrate biological membranes, making it a potential vehicle for delivering topical medications.

DMSO and Arthritis: Potential Benefits and Limitations

Due to its purported anti-inflammatory properties, DMSO has gained some commercial popularity as a treatment for arthritis. Some individuals claim that DMSO may help reduce the pain and inflammation associated with the condition. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved DMSO, or any medication containing DMSO-derived ingredients, for the treatment of arthritis. The current evidence supporting the use of DMSO for arthritis management is anecdotal rather than scientific.

Potential Side Effects and Safety Concerns

A 2018 review of 109 studies on the harmful side effects of DMSO in humans found that most negative reactions were either short-term or rare. The most common reported adverse reactions included gastrointestinal symptoms, skin reactions, and, in rare cases, cardiac and neurological reactions. The severity of side effects may be linked to the administration method and the dose size, with lower doses generally associated with milder or no side effects.

Proper Usage and Administration of DMSO

DMSO should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. The most common ways of using DMSO are topical, such as in a gel or solution, or intravesical (through the bladder). Other methods, such as oral or intravenous administration, have not been thoroughly researched for safety.

DMSO and Cancer: Conflicting Evidence

While some people claim that DMSO can alleviate certain chemotherapy side effects, such as skin and tissue damage, the evidence is conflicting. A 2014 study suggests that DMSO can interfere with certain chemotherapy drugs, while a more recent 2020 study indicates that DMSO may prevent the growth of and encourage the death of cancer cells. The FDA has approved a combination of trametinib and DMSO for treating specific types of cancer, but only under certain conditions.

The Bottom Line: DMSO’s Limited Approval and Ongoing Research

At present, DMSO only has FDA approval for the treatment of interstitial cystitis, a chronic and often painful bladder condition. While there is some anecdotal evidence supporting the use of DMSO for arthritis, there is no scientific consensus on its efficacy and safety for this purpose. Anyone interested in using DMSO, whether for arthritis or other conditions, should consult with a healthcare professional before doing so.

Does DMSO Have FDA Approval for Treating Arthritis?

No, the FDA has not approved DMSO, or any medication containing DMSO-derived ingredients, for the treatment of arthritis. The current evidence supporting the use of DMSO for arthritis management is anecdotal rather than scientific.

What Are the Potential Side Effects of Using DMSO?

According to a 2018 review, the most common reported adverse reactions to DMSO include gastrointestinal symptoms, skin reactions, and, in rare cases, cardiac and neurological reactions. The severity of side effects may be linked to the administration method and the dose size.

Can DMSO Be Used to Treat Cancer?

The evidence regarding the use of DMSO for cancer treatment is conflicting. While some people claim it can alleviate certain chemotherapy side effects, a 2014 study suggests DMSO can interfere with certain chemotherapy drugs. Conversely, a 2020 study indicates DMSO may prevent the growth of and encourage the death of cancer cells. The FDA has approved a combination of trametinib and DMSO for treating specific types of cancer, but only under certain conditions.

Conclusion

DMSO is a versatile chemical compound with a range of potential medical applications. While it has gained attention for its purported benefits in treating arthritis, the current scientific evidence is limited, and the FDA has not approved its use for this purpose. Anyone interested in using DMSO, whether for arthritis or other conditions, should consult with a healthcare professional to weigh the potential benefits and risks.