DMSO is a controversial drug used to treat such conditions as arthritis, bursitis, and sprains. When applied externally, the drug is quickly absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream. Supporters of DMSO claim that it is remarkably effective in relieving pain and reducing inflammation. But the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved the drug for external use on human beings. The FDA does permit the drug to be used internally to treat a bladder condition called interstitial cystitis.
DMSO stands for dimethyl sulfoxide, a compound obtained as a by-product of paper manufacturing. DMSO has long been used as an industrial solvent, but scientists did not discover its medicinal properties until the early 1960’s. Thousands of people used DMSO until 1965, when the FDA banned it as a human drug. The FDA based its decision on reports that the drug caused eye damage in experiments with animals. Although eye damage has not been observed in people treated with DMSO, the drug has caused minor side effects. These side effects include bad breath, headaches, nausea, and skin rashes.
The FDA later allowed limited testing of DMSO. The drug was approved for cystitis in 1978. But many Americans obtain and use it for other ailments. Some people treat themselves with industrial DMSO, though it may contain harmful impurities.
