- Brand Name :
- Drug Class : N/A
- Medical Author : John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP
- Medical Reviewer :
- _eael_post_view_count : 7
What Is MSM and How Does It Work?
MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) is a chemical found in green plants, animals, and humans. It can also be made in a laboratory.
MSM is applied to the skin for chronic pain, osteoarthritis, joint inflammation, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, bursitis, tendinitis, tenosynovitis, musculoskeletal pain, muscle cramps, scleroderma, scar tissue, stretch marks, hair loss, wrinkles, sun and wind burn protection, eye inflammation, oral hygiene, gum disease, wounds, cuts, and abrasions, and accelerated wound healing.
MSM is taken by mouth for relief of allergies, chronic constipation, “sour stomach,” ulcers, diverticulosis, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), mood elevation, obesity, poor circulation, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, liver problems, Alzheimer’s disease, to control snoring, lung disorders including emphysema and pneumonia, chronic fatigue syndrome, autoimmune disorders (such as systemic lupus erythematous), HIV/AIDS, breast cancer and colon cancer, eye inflammation, mucous membrane inflammation, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems, leg cramps, migraine, headaches, hangover, parasitic infections of the intestinal and urogenital tracts including Trichomonas vaginalis and Giardia, yeast infection, insect bites, radiation poisoning, and to boost the immune system.
There is currently little published scientific research to support use the use of MSM. There is no Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for MSM or sulfur, which is in MSM.
MSM is available under the following different brand names: dimethyl sulfone, DMSO2, methylsulfonylmethane, Glucosamine & Chondroitin with MSM, Flex-a-min, MSM glucosamine chondroitin, Osteo BiFlex plus MSM, and Triflex.
Dosages of MSM
- 1000-3000 mg/day, divided, or
- 400 mg per 50 lbs body weight per day
Dosage Considerations – Should be Given as Follows:
- Take with meals
- Pediatric: Safety and efficacy not established
Other Indications and Uses
- Oral and topical: Chronic musculoskeletal and joint pain, scars, wrinkles, periodontal disease, wound healing
- Oral: Allergies, depression, peptic ulcer, interstitial cystitis, type 2 DM, lung dysfunction, HIV infection
- Efficacy: Insufficient information