DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) is popular among supporters of alternative methods, for which it is a cure for almost all diseases. In their opinion, the DMSO treatment can cure everything from dislocations, through arthritis, to mental diseases and Down's syndrome. It also supposedly heals tumors, of course. However, scientific research does not clearly confirm its properties. What is certain is that it can cause numerous side effects. Check what DMSO is, what it does and where it is used.

DMSO( dimethyl sulfoxide,dimethyl sulfoxide, chemical formula: C2H6OS), isorganic sulfur compound , the properties of which began to be studied from the end of the 19th century. Other names for DMSO are dimethyl sulfoxide, dimethyl sulfoxide, methyl sulfoxide, methylsulfinylmethane. Currently, DMSO is a substance that is widely used asanalytical reagentandchemical solvent , ¹ in spectroscopy and chromatography, among others. as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic drug and as a cryoprotectant¹

DMSO (Dimethylsulfoxide) is abyproduct of papermaking . Its side effect isstrong garlic smellthat lasts up to 72 hours after application (externally or internally).

DMSO in Poland can be found in the form of:

  • liquid - it is colorless, you can drink it and rub it on your skin
  • gel
  • ointments
  • solution for intravenous administration

The price of preparations containing DMO is not high (about PLN 30 for 500 ml). Additionally, it can be purchased at a pharmacy or online.

DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) - properties and application

DMSO (dimethylsulfoxide) is a preparation that has found the following application in medicine:

  • arthritis, osteoarthritis

DMSO has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties (it has a local anesthetic effect when applied to the skin). Therefore, it is used in arthritis and osteoarthritis.

There are no studies to provide guidance for determining the correct dosage of DMSO. The gel used to treat osteoarthritis usually has a concentration of 25%. It is used three orfour times a day. However, the concentration of over-the-counter DMSO can range from 10% to 90%.4

  • bedsores, hard-to-heal wounds

DMSO penetrates cell membranes, easily penetrates the skin, therefore it is used as a carrier for topical application of pharmaceuticals .¹ DMSO improves the penetration of the active substance of drugs through the skin, facilitates their absorption.

It has been shown that the use of DMSO cream or ointment in the early stages of pressure ulcer development reduces the risk of their further development. ³ Studies have reported a reduction in erythema, rapid healing of ulcers, and swelling. It also relieves pain.

  • interstitial cystitis

DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) is an approved prescription drug for the treatment ofinterstitial cystitis(onlyintravesical , during vesical instillation). During the procedure, a catheter is inserted into the bladder through which the drug solution is administered. The drug stays in the bladder for a few seconds to 15 minutes. The solution then flows out of the bladder through the catheter. This treatment is given every one or two weeks for 6-8 weeks. The treatment can be repeated if necessary.

  • chemotherapy

DMSO is also used when the drug is extravasated during chemotherapy5(this is the leakage of the cytostatic drug beyond the venous vessel into the surrounding tissues or direct infiltration of the tissues by incorrect administration of the cytostatic preparation ).

  • organ maintenance

In cryobiology, DMSO has been used as a cryoprotectant (a substance or mixture of substances that protects frozen tissues and other biological samples) and is still an important component of cryoprotective mixtures usedto preserve organs , tissues and suspensions mobile phones.

It is especially important for freezing and long-term storage ofembryonic stem cells and hematopoietic stem cells, which are often frozen in a mixture of 10% DMSO and 90% fetal calf serum .¹

DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) - is it a cancer drug?

DMSO is considered a "wonder drug" by advocates of alternative methods. In their opinion, it should show, inter alia,anti-cancer properties . Indeed, DMSO traps free radical hydroxide.5So it has antioxidant properties.5

Some lab studies have shown that DMSO can slow cancer progression, howeverno clinical studies have been done .5So there is no evidence for this that DMSO cantreat cancer in humans.5

The American Cancer Society emphasizes that there is no evidence to support the use of DMSO in the treatment of cancer. Using it in this way can cause serious delays in getting proper and effective treatment.4

Supporters of alternative methods recommend the use of DMSO not only in the case of neoplastic diseases, but also seriouseye diseases , such as:

  • cataract
  • macular edema
  • macular degeneration

Supposedly, you should put a few drops of diluted DMSO into your eyes once or several times a day.

They also recommend it fordiabetic neuropathy . Massaging the DMSO solution into the skin is expected to reduce the nerve damage that occurs during neuropathy.

Others take it a step further and recommend it as a treatment for multiple sclerosis. Multiple sclerosis (sclerosis multiplex, MS) is a disease in which the structures of the nervous system are damaged. In this case, DMSO is supposed to be anti-inflammatory and strengthen the immune system.

Some people argue that the DMSO treatment works like therapeutic brine baths in spas. Nothing could be more wrong. There is uncertainty about the safety of oral and intravenous DMSO. Do not give up your current treatment in favor of using DMSO preparations or use them without consulting your doctor.

There is no scientific evidencethat DMSO works in the described cases and it is cautioned not to take it for therapeutic purposes.

Moreover, one of the books describing alternative methods recommends the use of DMSO in disorders of a child's development. It is expected to bring amazing results in children with developmental disorders or delays. This thesis has also not been scientifically proven.Do not give children DMSO preparations!

DMSO - side effects and side effects

DMSO side effects when applied to the skin include :4

  • indigestion
  • skin irritation
  • skin emitting a strong garlic odor

The more serious side effects include:

  • severe allergic reactions
  • headaches
  • itching and burning when applied to the skin

DMSO can also be fatal when used in high concentrations.

Using DMSO orally may result in:

  • dizziness
  • sleepiness
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • constipation
  • decreased appetite

DMSO can make certain medications stronger , which can lead to serious he alth problems. Examples of such drugs include:

  • anticoagulants
  • steroids
  • sedatives

The biggest problem with DMSO as a solvent is that when applied to the skin, it causes the absorption of anything on the skin. Therefore, you should thoroughly wash your hands and skin before use.

DMSO - contraindications

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not use DMSO as little is known about its possible effects on a fetus or infant.

You should also not use DMSO without consulting your doctor, if the patient has the following confirmation:

  • diabetic
  • asthma
  • liver disease and kidney disease
Worth knowing

In January 2022, a 36-year-old girl was taken to a hospital in Poznań straight from the integrative medicine clinic. She was in cardiac arrest. The woman died. According to doctors from the hospital. J. Strusia in Poznań, the woman was probably administered dimethylsulfoxide in the clinic.

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Category:

Alternative medicine