What are the medical applications of dimethyl sulfoxide. How does DMSO affect the human body. What are the potential risks and side effects of using DMSO. Is DMSO approved by the FDA for any specific conditions. How is DMSO administered and in what forms is it available. What precautions should be taken when using DMSO.

The Origins and Chemical Properties of Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO)

Dimethyl sulfoxide, commonly known as DMSO, is a fascinating compound with a diverse range of applications. But what exactly is DMSO, and where does it come from?

DMSO is a byproduct of the paper-making industry, derived from a substance found in wood. Its use as an industrial solvent dates back to the mid-1800s, showcasing its long history in various sectors. The chemical formula for DMSO is (CH3)2SO, indicating its composition of carbon, hydrogen, sulfur, and oxygen atoms.

One of the most intriguing properties of DMSO is its ability to penetrate biological membranes easily. This characteristic has led to its exploration in medical applications, particularly as a vehicle for drug delivery. DMSO can effectively dissolve many organic and inorganic substances, making it a versatile solvent in both industrial and pharmaceutical settings.

Key Chemical Properties of DMSO:

• High polarity
• Excellent solvent capabilities
• Low toxicity
• Rapid skin penetration
• Cryoprotectant properties

These unique properties have sparked interest in DMSO’s potential for various medical and therapeutic applications, leading to extensive research in recent decades.

FDA-Approved Medical Uses of DMSO

While DMSO has been the subject of numerous studies and has a wide range of potential applications, it’s crucial to understand its current status in terms of FDA approval. What conditions has DMSO been officially approved to treat?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved DMSO as a prescription medication for one specific condition: interstitial cystitis, also known as painful bladder syndrome. In this application, DMSO is used to alleviate the symptoms associated with this chronic bladder condition.

For interstitial cystitis, DMSO is typically administered as a bladder instillation. This involves inserting a catheter to deliver the solution directly into the bladder, where it can work to reduce inflammation and pain. Clinical studies have shown that this treatment can significantly improve symptoms for many patients suffering from this debilitating condition.

DMSO Treatment Protocol for Interstitial Cystitis:

1. Catheter insertion
2. DMSO solution instillation
3. Retention of solution for a specified period
4. Drainage and removal of catheter
5. Repeated treatments as prescribed

It’s important to note that while this is the only FDA-approved use of DMSO, research continues into its potential efficacy for other conditions under medical supervision.

Off-Label and Experimental Uses of DMSO in Medicine

Beyond its FDA-approved use, DMSO has been explored for various other medical applications. What are some of the conditions for which DMSO is being investigated or used off-label?

One area of significant interest is pain management. DMSO has been studied for its potential to alleviate pain associated with conditions such as osteoarthritis and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). When applied topically, DMSO may help reduce inflammation and provide pain relief, although more research is needed to fully understand its efficacy in these applications.

Another intriguing area of research involves DMSO’s potential in treating skin conditions and injuries. Its ability to penetrate the skin quickly has led to investigations into its use for treating wounds, burns, and scars. Some practitioners have also explored its potential in managing conditions like scleroderma, a disease that causes scar tissue formation in the skin.

Other Conditions Explored for DMSO Treatment:

• Shingles
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Headaches
• Eye problems
• Cancer (as an alternative treatment, though not scientifically supported)

It’s crucial to emphasize that many of these applications lack substantial scientific evidence to support their effectiveness. Patients should always consult with healthcare professionals before considering DMSO for any off-label use.

The Mechanism of Action: How DMSO Works in the Body

Understanding how DMSO interacts with the human body is crucial for appreciating both its potential benefits and risks. So, how exactly does DMSO work once it’s introduced to the body?

DMSO’s primary mechanism of action is rooted in its exceptional ability to penetrate biological membranes. When applied to the skin, DMSO rapidly passes through the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the epidermis, and into deeper tissues. This property is what makes DMSO an attractive option for delivering other medications transdermally.

Once in the body, DMSO interacts with various biological molecules, including proteins, carbohydrates, nucleic acids, and ionic substances. It can alter the structure of cell membranes, potentially affecting their permeability. This interaction with cellular components is believed to contribute to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.

Key Aspects of DMSO’s Mechanism of Action:

• Rapid transdermal absorption
• Alteration of cell membrane permeability
• Interaction with various biomolecules
• Potential free radical scavenging properties
• Enhancement of other drug penetration

The ability of DMSO to enhance the absorption of other substances is both a benefit and a potential risk. While it can improve the effectiveness of certain medications, it can also increase the absorption of harmful substances if present on the skin.

Forms and Administration of DMSO: From Gels to Oral Supplements

DMSO is available in various forms, each with its own set of applications and considerations. How is DMSO typically administered, and what forms are available to consumers and healthcare providers?

The most common form of DMSO is as a topical gel or cream. These formulations are often used for localized pain relief and are available over-the-counter in many health food stores and online retailers. The concentration of DMSO in these products can vary significantly, typically ranging from 10% to 90%.

For its FDA-approved use in treating interstitial cystitis, DMSO is administered as a liquid solution directly into the bladder. This form is only available by prescription and should be administered by a healthcare professional.

Available Forms of DMSO:

• Topical gels and creams
• Liquid solutions for bladder instillation
• Oral supplements (limited availability and unclear safety profile)
• Pure liquid DMSO (typically for laboratory or industrial use)

It’s important to note that while oral DMSO supplements exist, their safety and efficacy are not well-established. The FDA has not approved DMSO for oral consumption, and potential risks associated with this route of administration are not fully understood.

Potential Side Effects and Risks Associated with DMSO Use

While DMSO has shown promise in various applications, it’s not without its potential drawbacks. What are the known side effects and risks associated with using DMSO?

The most commonly reported side effect of topical DMSO application is skin irritation. Users may experience itching, burning, or redness at the site of application. Another well-known side effect is a garlic-like body odor, which occurs as the body metabolizes DMSO.

More serious side effects, though less common, can include severe allergic reactions, headaches, and gastrointestinal disturbances. When used in high concentrations or improperly, DMSO can potentially cause serious harm.

Common Side Effects of DMSO:

• Skin irritation (itching, burning, redness)
• Garlic-like body odor
• Stomach upset
• Headaches
• Dizziness or drowsiness (especially with oral use)

One of the most significant risks associated with DMSO is its ability to enhance the absorption of other substances through the skin. This means that any contaminants or harmful substances on the skin can be more readily absorbed into the body when DMSO is applied.

Safety Precautions and Contraindications for DMSO Usage

Given the potential risks associated with DMSO, it’s crucial to understand the necessary precautions and situations where its use may be contraindicated. What safety measures should be taken when using DMSO, and who should avoid its use?

First and foremost, it’s essential to use only pharmaceutical-grade DMSO for medical purposes. Industrial-grade DMSO may contain impurities that can be harmful when absorbed through the skin. Always ensure that the product you’re using is intended for medical use and obtained from a reputable source.

Before applying DMSO, thoroughly clean the area of application to remove any potential contaminants. This step is crucial due to DMSO’s ability to enhance the absorption of other substances through the skin.

Groups Who Should Avoid or Use DMSO with Caution:

• Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers
• Individuals with liver or kidney conditions
• People with diabetes
• Those with asthma
• Individuals taking blood thinners, steroids, or sedatives

DMSO can interact with various medications, potentially altering their effects or increasing their absorption. Always consult with a healthcare provider before using DMSO, especially if you’re taking other medications or have underlying health conditions.

It’s important to remember that while DMSO is available over-the-counter for some applications, it should be used with caution and preferably under medical supervision. The lack of FDA regulation for many DMSO products means that quality and safety can vary significantly between manufacturers.

In conclusion, while DMSO shows promise in various medical applications, its use comes with potential risks and side effects. Understanding these risks, taking proper precautions, and consulting with healthcare professionals are essential steps for anyone considering the use of DMSO. As research continues, we may gain a clearer picture of DMSO’s full potential and limitations in medical treatment.

DMSO: Uses and Risks

Written by Joseph Saling

• Why Do People Use DMSO?
• What Are the Risks of Using DMSO?

DMSO, or dimethyl sulfoxide, is a by-product of paper making. It comes from a substance found in wood.

DMSO has been used as an industrial solvent since the mid-1800s. From about the mid-20th century, researchers have explored its use as an anti-inflammatory agent.

The FDA has approved DMSO as a prescription medication for treating symptoms of painful bladder syndrome. It’s also used under medical supervision to treat several other conditions, including shingles.

DMSO is easily absorbed by the skin. It’s sometimes used to increase the body’s absorption of other medications.

DMSO is available without a prescription most often in gel or cream form. It can be purchased in health food stores, by mail order, and on the Internet.

While it can sometimes be found as an oral supplement, its safety is unclear. DMSO is primarily used by applying it to the skin.

DMSO has been used to try to relieve the pain of osteoarthritis. It has also been promoted as an “alternative” cancer treatment.

People have used it to try to treat wounds, burns, and other injuries. People have also used it to try to treat such conditions as:

• Headache
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Eye problems
• Scars
• Scleroderma (disease that causes scar tissue to form in the skin)

Other than its use as a prescription medicine, there is little or no scientific evidence to support other claims made about DMSO’s effectiveness.

The American Cancer Society says there is no evidence to support the use of DMSO to treat cancer. Using it that way could cause serious delays in getting proper and effective treatment.

A recent analysis of studies on the use of DMSO to relieve osteoarthritis pain found that it was not significantly more effective than placebo in relieving joint pain.

There are no studies that provide guidelines for determining the proper dose of DMSO. The gel used to treat osteoarthritis typically has a concentration of 25%. It is applied three or four times a day. But DMSO sold without a prescription can range from 10% concentration to 90%.

Some DMSO on the market may actually be industrial grade. Industrial grade DMSO may contain a number of impurities that can easily be absorbed into the skin with potentially serious health effects.

The most frequent side effects from using DMSO on the skin include:

• Stomach upset
• Skin irritation
• Strong odor of garlic

More serious side effects include:

• Severe allergic reactions
• Headaches
• Itching and burning when applied to the skin

DMSO can also cause a deadly reaction when used in high concentrations.

Using DMSO by mouth can cause:

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Decreased appetite

DMSO can increase the effect of some medicines, which can lead to serious health issues. Examples of such medicines include:

• Blood thinners
• Steroids
• Sedatives

The biggest concern of DMSO as a solvent is that when it gets on the skin it will cause anything on the skin to be absorbed. So be sure to wash your hands and skin well before using.

Pregnant women and women who are breastfeeding should not use DMSO, since little is known about its possible effects on the fetus or infant.

You should also not use DMSO without talking to your doctor if you have:

• Diabetes
• Asthma
• Liver and kidney conditions

Always keep in mind that supplements are not regulated by the FDA the same was as drugs are. The manufacturer does not have to prove that a supplement is safe or effective before selling.

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Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) is a chemical that dissolves many organic and inorganic substances. It’s available as a prescription drug and dietary supplement.

DMSO helps medicines get through the skin and can affect proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and water in the body.

People use DMSO for bladderinflammation (interstitial cystitis), limb pain that usually occurs after an injury, and leakage of an IV drug from the vein into surrounding skin and tissue. It is also used for osteoarthritis, bed sores, stomach ulcers, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these other uses.

Don’t confuse DMSO with Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM). These are not the same.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

Effective for

• Painful bladder syndrome (interstitial cystitis). DMSO is an FDA-approved product for the treatment of this condition. Washing the bladder with DMSO improves some symptoms, such as pain.

Possibly Effective for

• Limb pain that usually occurs after an injury (complex regional pain syndrome). Applying DMSO cream to the skin seems to improve pain in people with this condition.
• Leakage of intravenous (IV) drug from the vein into surrounding skin and tissue (extravasation). Some chemotherapy drugs can cause skin and tissue damage if they leak from the vein. Applying DMSO to the skin might prevent further damage if this happens.

Possibly Ineffective for

• Hardening of skin and connective tissue (scleroderma). Applying DMSO to the skin doesn’t help treat symptoms of scleroderma.

There is interest in using DMSO for a number of other purposes, but there isn’t enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: There isn’t enough reliable information to know if DMSO is safe or what the side effects might be.

When applied to the skin: Non-prescription DMSO is possibly unsafe. Some non-prescription DMSO products might be industrial grade. These aren’t intended for human use and can contain impurities that can cause health issues. DMSO is easily absorbed through the skin, so it can carry these impurities into the body. Side effects might include blistering and burning.

When applied inside the bladder: Prescription DMSO is likely safe. Don’t use DMSO products that are not prescribed by a healthcare professional.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: There isn’t enough reliable information to know if DMSO is safe or what the side effects might be.

When applied to the skin: Non-prescription DMSO is possibly unsafe. Some non-prescription DMSO products might be industrial grade. These aren’t intended for human use and can contain impurities that can cause health issues. DMSO is easily absorbed through the skin, so it can carry these impurities into the body. Side effects might include blistering and burning.

When applied inside the bladder: Prescription DMSO is likely safe. Don’t use DMSO products that are not prescribed by a healthcare professional.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn’t enough reliable information to know if DMSO is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Certain blood disorders. Injecting DMSO by IV might cause red blood cells to break down. This might be a problem for people with certain blood disorders. DMSO might make these conditions worse.

Kidney problems: DMSO might harm the kidneys. Check with a healthcare provider before using DMSO if you have kidney problems.

Liver problems: DMSO might harm the liver. Check with a healthcare provider before using DMSO if you have liver problems.br/>

Interactions ?

Moderate Interaction

Be cautious with this combination

• DMSO can sometimes increase how much medicine the body absorbs. Applying DMSO to the skin, eyes, or ears at the same time as applying medication can increase how much medicine the body absorbs. This might increase the effects and side effects of the medicine.

• DMSO might slow blood clotting. Taking DMSO along with medications that also slow blood clotting might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.

• Using DMSO with sulindac might reduce how well sulindac works to treat pain. There is also a concern that using DMSO with sulindac can increase the risk for nerve pain.

• DMSO can increase a chemical in the body called acetylcholine. Some medications that are used for glaucoma, Alzheimer disease, and other conditions, also increase acetylcholine levels. Taking DMSO with these medications might increase the chance of side effects.

• Using DMSO with verteporfin might reduce how well verteporfin works.

• Using DMSO to dissolve platinum agents onto the skin might reduce how well these drugs work to treat cancer. Examples of platinum agents include carboplatin, cisplatin, and oxaliplatin.

Dosing

DMSO has most often been applied to the skin by adults in various forms, including creams, gels, and solutions. It is also applied inside the bladder. DMSO is available as a prescription and in dietary supplements. Speak with a healthcare provider before use.

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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.

Dimethyl sulfoxide — a unique solvent and medicinal substance

Dimethyl sulfoxide (abbreviated as DMSO) — an organic compound, an aprotic solvent, that is, a solvent that, when decomposed in solution, does not form a free hydrogen ion H + (proton). The substance is a thick liquid, colorless, hygroscopic, with a characteristic odor. The reagent is miscible in any proportions with water, ethyl alcohol, chloroform, benzene. It dissolves well in diethyl ether and acetone.

Dimethyl sulfoxide boils at +189°C, is slightly volatile under normal conditions even when heated, making it a safe and convenient solvent.

It has unique dissolving properties, which is why it is currently widely used in medicine and cosmetology. It easily and quickly (within a few seconds) penetrates intact skin, transferring the active substances of medicinal or cosmetic products dissolved in it into the interior. Thus, it increases the effectiveness of ointments, creams, solutions – dramatically increasing the rate of penetration of active substances through the skin barrier. In addition, DMSO has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, and is harmful to many bacteria.

Pure DMSO, on contact with the skin, can cause irritation, therefore, for medicinal purposes, its aqueous solutions of various concentrations are most often used, usually from 10 to 70 percent.

Production of dimethyl sulfoxide

Demand for dimethyl sulfoxide is growing every year as more and more new applications are found for it. On an industrial scale, DMSO is supplied by paper companies, where this reagent is obtained as a by-product.

DMSO Applications

— DMSO is most commonly used as a solvent for organic and inorganic substances. It is used in analytical chemistry and in the chemical industry, in laboratory practice, at home, in biological research.
– In molecular biology when working with DNA sections.
– In microbiological studies using nuclear magnetic resonance, the deuterated form of dimethyl sulfoxide is used.
– The addition of dimethyl sulfoxide to the solution makes it possible to maintain cell cultures, blood, embryos, and other living objects in a viable state at the temperature of liquid nitrogen.
– In the production of electronic boards and devices.
– In everyday life, DMSO effectively removes paint stains, remnants of mounting foam, superglue.
– In medicine as part of external topical agents: anti-inflammatory; painkillers; against bruises and sprains; against ulcers, erysipelatous and purulent wounds; with diseases of the musculoskeletal system; for storing skin grafts. With thrombophlebitis (dissolves blood clots). The trade name is Dimexide. Due to a wide spectrum of action, “Dimexide” is in demand in military field medicine.
– In the military, DMSO is used to enhance the penetrating effect of toxic substances.
– Included in hydraulic fluids, antifreezes.

“PrimeChemicalsGroup”, a chemical reagents store in Moscow, offers to buy dimethyl sulfoxide at a good price, with delivery or pickup. The assortment includes a wide range of other reagents, laboratory equipment and glassware.

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Properties, features, scope

CAS number: 67-68-5

Chemical name and synonyms: Dimethyl sulfoxide, Methyl sulfoxide, Dimethyl (oxide) sulfur, DMSO, Dimethyl sulfoxide, DMSO, Methyl sulfoxide.

Physical and chemical properties:

Appearance: colorless transparent oily liquid

Molecular weight, g/mol: 78.13
Density g/cm³: 1.1±0.1
Melting point, °C: 18. 4
Flash point, °C: 87
Boiling point, °C: 189
Decomposition temperature, °C: 150
Vapor density: 2.7 (against air)
Vapor pressure, mm Hg Art.: 0.8±0.3 at 25°C

Description:

The substance was discovered by the Russian chemist Alexander Zaitsev in 1866 during the oxidation of dimethyl sulfide with nitric acid. However, for almost a century, DMSO was practically not used, properties and methods of application were not studied. Recorded use in Russian hospitals during the First World War in the treatment of wounds, fractures and injuries.

In 1958, its properties as an almost ideal solvent became known, which caused a sharp increase in research on DMSO. It has become widely used in medicine, biology, cosmetology, military affairs and many other industries. It easily and quickly (within a few seconds) penetrates intact skin, transferring the active substances of medicinal or cosmetic products dissolved in it into the interior.
Dimethyl sulfoxide is highly soluble in water, miscible with acetone, gasoline, benzene, toluene, acetic acid, dimethylformamide, ethyl alcohol.
Known as a drug called Dimexide.

Recommended storage temperature: 15 – 25 °C.

Application:

– As a cryoconservator
DMSO has the unique ability to dramatically lower the freezing point of water while maintaining the viability of most types of tissues and cells. It is integrated into the cell medium in order to minimize cell damage during freezing. 10% DMSO solution is used for safe cooling of cells and for their preservation at liquid nitrogen temperature. DMSO has become widely used in cryopreservation media for stem cells derived from human cord blood and reproductive tissue.

– As a solvent
Since DMSO is capable of dissolving a large amount of polymers, it is used in the casting of polymer films and fibers used in the production of cleaning membranes. With the help of DMSO, polyurethane and polyester residues from the manufacture of parts are cleaned.

Dimethyl sulfoxide is used as a solvent in chemical reactions involving inorganic salts, in particular in nucleophilic substitution reactions. Since DMSO has weak acidic properties, it is used as a solvent in the chemistry of carboanions.

Due to its high boiling point, DMSO evaporates very slowly at normal atmospheric pressure. Therefore, it is good to use it as a solvent for carrying out reactions when heated.

DMSO is safer and more effective than gasoline or dichloromethane as a paint stain remover. Along with nitromethane, DMSO is able to remove “super glue” (hardened, but still fresh) and uncured polyurethane foam.

Able to dissolve sludge, carbon deposits, varnishes formed during the decomposition of engine oil inside internal combustion engines. Why DMSO is added to the oil and directly into the combustion chamber. The flushing is so effective that it is possible to completely free the stuck piston rings and clean the oil drain holes in the pistons. But at the same time, the paint and varnish coatings of engine parts can also dissolve, with subsequent ingress of coating flakes into the oil lines.

– Pharmaceuticals and cosmetics
On average, in 7 seconds it is able to penetrate the skin barrier, carrying along with it the dissolved active substances of cosmetics or medicines. Due to such a sharp increase in the rate of penetration through the skin into the body, DMSO enhances the effect of creams, ointments and solutions.

– Medical
Used for inflammatory diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Analgesic and anti-inflammatory action is based on the mechanism of inactivation of hydroxyl radicals and improvement of metabolic processes in the focus of inflammation, inhibition of the conduction of nociceptive impulses in peripheral neurons, as well as antagonism against the vascular effects of histamine, bradykinin and prostaglandin E1.

The drug has a moderate antiseptic and fibrinolytic effect.

– Crop production
DMSO also increases the permeability of the cell barrier in plants. Therefore, the substance is used in the manufacture of solutions for feeding and protecting plants. In addition, DMSO acts as a natural source of organic sulfur for plants. DMSO is not toxic to plants and does not accumulate in their tissues.
The use of mixtures with dimethyl sulfoxide can increase the frost and drought resistance of plants up to 30%.

– Leather industry
DMSO significantly increases the permeability of water through the leather tissue. The rate of water penetration through the stratum corneum when using dimethyl sulfoxide in solution increases 125 times. The use of DMSO in the tanning process improves the quality of the tanned leather, reduces the tanning time and reduces the concentration of chromium oxide in the spent tanning solution. Leathers tanned with chrome tanning using DMSO have higher physical, mechanical and hygienic characteristics.

– Biology
Used in the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to inhibit the pairing of parent DNA molecules. It is added to the PCR mixture before starting the reaction. The substance affects the complementary sections of DNA, preventing their pairing and reducing the number of side processes.

– Military
Enhances the damaging effect of chemical weapons. One drop of VX toxin mixed with DMSO (i.e., a lower dose) causes the death of a test animal twice as fast as a drop of a pure poisonous substance. Adding 10% DMSO solution to mustard gas doubles the depth of mustard skin lesions.

Receive:

On an industrial scale, DMSO is supplied by paper companies, where this reagent is obtained as a by-product in the sulfate method of wood delignization. Dimethyl sulfoxide is obtained industrially from dimethyl sulfide by oxidation with oxygen, nitric acid or nitrogen dioxide.

Action on the body:

Non-irritant to eyes and skin, skin allergen. But since DMSO is a substance that easily penetrates the protective skin barrier, while passing through it the components dissolved in it, it is the components of solutions in which DMSO is used as a solvent that are dangerous.

Therefore, when working with DMSO as a solvent, it is necessary to protect the skin with chemical protection gloves. Ordinary household gloves do not protect against the penetration of dimethyl sulfoxide. It is recommended to use gloves made of butyl rubber, fluoroelastomer, neoprene with a material thickness of more than 0.3 mm, or latex with a material thickness of more than 0.4 mm.

When DMSO is used for medical purposes, a dilution of 10 to 70 percent is used, as DMSO in its pure form may cause irritation to the skin. Dimethyl sulfoxide has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, and is harmful to many bacteria.

DMSO enhances the effects of blood thinners, steroids, heart drugs, sedatives and other drugs. In some cases, this can be harmful or dangerous.