Dimethyl sulfoxide

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is an organosulfur compound with the formula (CH3)2SO[2]. It is a colorless liquid that is widely used commercially as a polar aprotic solvent, capable of dissolving both polar and nonpolar compounds and miscible in a wide range of organic solvents as well as water[2]. DMSO has a relatively high boiling point and is metabolized to compounds that leave a garlic-like taste in the mouth after absorption through the skin[2].

Synthesis and Production

DMSO was first synthesized in 1866 by Russian scientist Alexander Zaytsev and is produced industrially from dimethyl sulfide, a by-product of the Kraft process, by oxidation with oxygen or nitrogen dioxide[2].

Medical Applications

DMSO has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of interstitial cystitis and is also used as a preservative for organ transplant[3]. It has been explored for its potential in treating various cutaneous challenges due to its ability to readily penetrate and diffuse through biological membranes[3]. At low concentrations, DMSO exhibits anti-inflammatory, analgesic, diuretic, vasodilator, anti-platelet aggregation, radio-protective, and muscle-relaxing properties[3]. It is also a vigorous scavenger of hydroxyl free radicals, which may explain its observed beneficial effects on skin rejuvenation and recovery from thermal injury[3].

Risks and Side Effects

While DMSO has been used to relieve the pain of osteoarthritis and has been promoted as an "alternative" cancer treatment, there is little or no scientific evidence to support these claims[4]. The American Cancer Society states that there is no evidence to support the use of DMSO to treat cancer, and using it in this way could cause serious delays in getting proper and effective treatment[4]. DMSO can cause side effects such as stomach upset, skin irritation, and a strong odor of garlic, and more serious side effects include allergic reactions and interactions with certain medications[4][5]. It can also increase the effect of some medicines, which can lead to serious health issues[4][5].

Availability and Regulation

DMSO is available without a prescription in gel or cream form and can be purchased in health food stores, by mail order, and on the Internet[4]. However, its safety and effectiveness for most uses are unclear, and it is primarily used under medical supervision[4][5]. The FDA has approved DMSO as a prescription medication for treating symptoms of painful bladder syndrome, and it is also used to treat several other conditions, including shingles, under medical supervision[4][5].

Citations:

[1] https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/substance/dimethylsulfoxide781367685

[2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dimethyl_sulfoxide

[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36459193/

[4] https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/dmso-uses-and-risks

[5] https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-dmso