Dimethyl Sulfoxide

Dimethyl Sulfoxide

• Name: Dimethyl Sulfoxide
• Name (English): Dimethyl Sulfoxide
• DrugBank ID: DB01093
• Type: Small Molecule
• CAS Number: 67-68-5

Pharmacology:

• Mechanism of Action: Multiple mechanisms including membrane penetration, membrane transport, effects on connective tissue, anti-inflammation, nerve blockade (analgesia), bacteriostasis, diuresis, enhancement or reduction of the effectiveness of other substances, induction of differentiation of malignant cells, radioprotective and cryoprotective actions, and protection against ischemic injury. It can also modulate cell membrane structure and properties, scavenge free radicals, and influence signal transduction pathways and gene expression.
• Therapeutic Uses: Treatment of interstitial cystitis (intravesical administration). Topical use (not always FDA-approved) for pain relief, accelerating healing of wounds, burns, muscle and skeletal injuries, and treating conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Also used to prevent soft tissue damage from IV chemotherapeutic agents (topical).

Pharmacokinetics:

• Absorption: Well absorbed topically and rapidly penetrates tissues.
• Metabolism: Oxidized to dimethyl sulfone and reduced to dimethyl sulfide.
• Excretion: Urine and feces (as unchanged drug and dimethyl sulfone), with some elimination via skin and lungs (dimethyl sulfide).

Side Effects:

• Common: Garlic-like taste in the mouth, garlic odor on breath and skin, bladder pain or discomfort.
• Less Common/Serious: Rash, blistering, burning, redness, scaling, hives, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, headache, nasal congestion, vision changes, severe dizziness, altered heart rate, chest pain, confusion, slurred speech, weakness, loss of coordination, fever, tremors, severe eye or heart symptoms. Anaphylaxis and severe infusion reactions can occur.