DMSO Treatment

Dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) is a liquid produced during the process of making paper. DMSO is primarily used as an agent to dissolve other substances. In the 1960s, it was discovered that this chemical can be used as a medical treatment of certain conditions. DMSO can be absorbed by the skin and has been studied for use as a vehicle through which medications can be administered through the skin.

Indications

• While DMSO has been used experimentally to treat many different conditions, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved this drug only for use in the treatment of interstitial cystitis, or bladder inflammation. DMSO has been used as an alternative cancer treatment since the 1960s. It is also used alternatively for pain relief and sedation. It is known to be used in the administration of intravenous chemotherapy to prevent the chemotherapeutic agent from leaking from the blood vessels and damaging surrounding tissue.

Administration

• For use in the treatment of interstitial cystitis, a liquid preparation of DMSO is instilled directly into the urinary bladder by way of a catheter. The customary dose is 50 mL and it is left in the bladder for 15 minutes. Normal voiding, or urination, removes DMSO from the bladder. Use in the treatment of bladder inflammation requires a written prescription. For other indications, DMSO preparations are available in the form of solution, gel, and cream. Some liquid forms may be taken orally. These alternative preparations are available in various concentrations and can be purchased from a variety of sources without a prescription.

Side Effects

• When used as a bladder instillation, the most common adverse effect is discomfort during administration. An unpleasant effect is the occurrence of a garlic-like odor on the breath and skin. Topical application of DMSO is associated with burning and itching at the application site. As the preparation is absorbed, some patients have reported the onset of a headache.

Warnings

• DMSO should be used with caution as when used in animals for research purposes there were cases in which eye damage occurred. The source of DMSO should be clearly identified as there is the possibility of contamination of those preparations used for alternative therapies. There is no clear data to indicate that DMSO is safe for use by expectant mothers or children.

Considerations

• DMSO may interact with blood thinners, sedatives and other medications. Do not start using any form of this substance without consulting your primary health care professional. Alternative preparations are not monitored by the FDA. Should you choose to use DMSO, you should request that your physician routinely monitor liver and kidney function.