What is dimethyl sulfoxide used for. How does DMSO work in the human body. What are the potential benefits and risks of using DMSO. Is DMSO FDA-approved for any medical conditions. How is DMSO typically administered or applied. What precautions should be taken when using DMSO.

Understanding Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO): Origin and Properties

Dimethyl sulfoxide, commonly known as DMSO, is a versatile organic compound with a fascinating history and a wide range of applications. Originally discovered as a by-product of paper production, DMSO is derived from lignin, a substance found in wood. Its unique chemical properties have made it a subject of interest in both industrial and medical fields since the mid-19th century.

What makes DMSO so special? Its molecular structure allows it to easily penetrate biological membranes, including human skin. This remarkable ability to pass through tissues has led to its exploration as a potential vehicle for drug delivery and as a therapeutic agent in its own right.

Chemical Properties of DMSO

• Colorless liquid at room temperature
• Slightly oily texture
• Characteristic garlic-like odor
• Excellent solvent for both polar and non-polar compounds
• High penetration ability through biological membranes

These unique properties have sparked interest in DMSO’s potential applications across various industries and medical fields. But how exactly is DMSO being used today?

Medical Applications of DMSO: FDA-Approved and Off-Label Uses

While DMSO has been the subject of numerous studies and has a range of purported benefits, it’s important to distinguish between its FDA-approved uses and those that are considered off-label or experimental.

FDA-Approved Use: Interstitial Cystitis

The primary FDA-approved medical use of DMSO is for the treatment of interstitial cystitis, also known as painful bladder syndrome. How does DMSO help in this condition? When administered intravesically (directly into the bladder), DMSO has been shown to alleviate pain and other symptoms associated with this chronic condition.

Off-Label and Experimental Uses

Beyond its approved use, DMSO has been explored for various other medical applications, though many of these lack substantial scientific evidence:

1. Pain management in complex regional pain syndrome
2. Topical application for osteoarthritis pain
3. Treatment of shingles symptoms
4. Wound healing and burn treatment
5. Management of scleroderma symptoms
6. Reduction of inflammation in various conditions

It’s crucial to note that while some of these uses show promise, they are not yet supported by robust clinical evidence and should be approached with caution under medical supervision.

DMSO as a Solvent: Enhancing Drug Delivery and Absorption

One of the most intriguing properties of DMSO is its ability to enhance the absorption of other substances through the skin. This characteristic has led to its exploration as a potential vehicle for drug delivery in various medical applications.

How does DMSO enhance absorption? Its unique molecular structure allows it to temporarily alter the permeability of cell membranes, facilitating the passage of other molecules through the skin and into the bloodstream. This property has both potential benefits and risks that must be carefully considered.

Potential Benefits of DMSO as a Solvent

• Improved efficacy of topical medications
• Potential for reduced dosages of certain drugs
• Enhanced delivery of nutrients or therapeutic compounds

Risks and Considerations

While the absorption-enhancing properties of DMSO can be beneficial, they also present potential risks. Any contaminants on the skin or in the DMSO itself may be more readily absorbed into the body. This underscores the importance of using pharmaceutical-grade DMSO and maintaining strict hygiene when applying it.

DMSO in Alternative Medicine: Claims and Controversies

DMSO has gained popularity in alternative medicine circles, with proponents claiming a wide range of health benefits. However, many of these claims lack scientific substantiation and have led to controversies within the medical community.

Common Alternative Medicine Claims

• Cancer treatment or prevention
• Anti-aging properties
• Treatment for various autoimmune disorders
• Enhancement of athletic performance

Are these claims supported by scientific evidence? In most cases, the answer is no. Organizations like the American Cancer Society have explicitly stated that there is no evidence to support the use of DMSO in cancer treatment. Using DMSO for such purposes could potentially delay proper medical care, leading to serious health consequences.

It’s essential for consumers to approach these claims with skepticism and consult with healthcare professionals before considering DMSO for any medical purpose, especially those not approved by regulatory bodies.

Safety Profile and Side Effects of DMSO

While DMSO has shown promise in various applications, it’s not without potential side effects and safety concerns. Understanding these risks is crucial for anyone considering the use of DMSO, whether for approved medical purposes or off-label uses.

Common Side Effects

When applied topically, DMSO may cause:

• Skin irritation, itching, or burning sensation
• Strong garlic-like body odor
• Dry, scaly skin in the application area

When taken orally or absorbed in large quantities, potential side effects include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Gastrointestinal disturbances

Serious Risks and Contraindications

In some cases, DMSO use can lead to more severe adverse reactions:

• Severe allergic reactions
• Liver and kidney damage (with long-term or high-dose use)
• Interactions with other medications, potentially altering their effects

DMSO is contraindicated in certain populations, including pregnant women and individuals with specific medical conditions. Always consult a healthcare professional before using DMSO, especially if you have pre-existing health issues or are taking other medications.

Regulatory Status and Quality Concerns of DMSO Products

The regulatory landscape surrounding DMSO is complex and varies depending on its intended use and the jurisdiction in question. This complexity can lead to significant variations in product quality and safety.

FDA Regulation

In the United States, DMSO is FDA-approved only for the treatment of interstitial cystitis. For this use, it is regulated as a prescription drug. However, DMSO is also available as a dietary supplement and in various over-the-counter products.

How does this impact consumers? The lack of comprehensive regulation for non-prescription DMSO products means that quality, purity, and concentration can vary widely between different sources.

Quality Concerns

One of the most significant risks associated with unregulated DMSO products is the potential presence of contaminants or the use of industrial-grade DMSO, which may contain harmful impurities. Given DMSO’s ability to enhance absorption through the skin, these contaminants could pose serious health risks.

What should consumers look for when purchasing DMSO products?

• Pharmaceutical-grade DMSO (99.9% pure)
• Products from reputable manufacturers
• Clear labeling of concentration and intended use
• Third-party testing for purity and contaminants

It’s crucial for consumers to be aware that dietary supplements, including DMSO products, are not subject to the same rigorous testing and approval process as prescription medications. This underscores the importance of caution and informed decision-making when considering the use of DMSO outside of its approved medical applications.

Current Research and Future Prospects for DMSO in Medicine

Despite the controversies and limitations surrounding its use, DMSO continues to be a subject of scientific interest. Ongoing research is exploring its potential in various medical applications, aiming to better understand its mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic benefits.

Areas of Active Research

• Neuroprotective properties in brain injury and stroke
• Anti-inflammatory effects in various conditions
• Potential applications in cryopreservation of biological tissues
• Role in enhancing the efficacy of certain cancer treatments

What challenges do researchers face in studying DMSO? One of the primary difficulties is designing studies that can definitively separate the effects of DMSO from those of the compounds it’s often used to deliver. Additionally, the wide range of purported benefits and its complex interactions within biological systems make it challenging to focus research efforts effectively.

Future Prospects

As research continues, it’s possible that new, evidence-based applications for DMSO may emerge. However, it’s crucial that any new uses be thoroughly validated through rigorous clinical trials before being adopted into mainstream medical practice.

The future of DMSO in medicine may lie in:

• Refined drug delivery systems leveraging its absorption-enhancing properties
• Targeted therapies exploiting its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects
• Novel formulations that minimize side effects while maximizing therapeutic benefits

As with any area of medical research, it’s important to approach new findings with cautious optimism, always prioritizing patient safety and evidence-based practice.

Practical Considerations for DMSO Use: Administration and Precautions

For those considering the use of DMSO, whether under medical supervision or as a supplement, understanding proper administration techniques and necessary precautions is crucial to minimize risks and maximize potential benefits.

Administration Methods

DMSO can be administered through various routes, depending on its intended use:

• Topical application: Most common for over-the-counter use
• Intravesical instillation: Used in the treatment of interstitial cystitis
• Oral consumption: Less common and potentially riskier
• Intravenous administration: Only under strict medical supervision

How should DMSO be applied topically? When using DMSO creams or gels:

1. Clean the application area thoroughly
2. Apply a thin layer of DMSO to the affected area
3. Gently massage the product into the skin
4. Wash hands thoroughly after application

Essential Precautions

To minimize risks associated with DMSO use, consider the following precautions:

• Use only pharmaceutical-grade DMSO products
• Start with lower concentrations to test for sensitivity
• Avoid applying DMSO to broken or irritated skin
• Do not use DMSO in combination with other topical products unless advised by a healthcare professional
• Be aware of the potential for increased absorption of other substances on the skin
• Monitor for any adverse reactions and discontinue use if they occur

It’s important to remember that while DMSO is available over-the-counter in many places, its use should ideally be supervised by a healthcare professional, especially for any medical purposes.

As research continues to uncover the potential benefits and risks of DMSO, it remains a compound of significant interest in both medical and scientific communities. While its FDA-approved use is limited, ongoing studies may reveal new applications in the future. For now, individuals considering DMSO use should approach it with caution, prioritize safety, and rely on evidence-based information to guide their decisions.

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.

View References

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.