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Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a chemical that occurs naturally in humans, as well as some green plants and animals. It can also be made in a lab.
MSM might supply sulfur to make other chemicals in the body. But there is no recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for MSM or sulfur, and sulfur deficiency is not a known condition.
People commonly use MSM for osteoarthritis. It is also used for pain, swelling, aging skin, hay fever, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses.
Don't confuse MSM with DMSO (Dimethylsulfoxide). They are not the same compound.
- Osteoarthritis. Most clinical research shows that MSM is modestly beneficial when used alone or in combination with other ingredients.
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- Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). Clinical research suggests that topical MSM is not beneficial in CVI.
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- Aging skin. It is unclear if oral MSM improves the appearance of aging skin to a clinically meaningful extent.
Login for details - Allergic rhinitis (hay fever). It is unclear if oral MSM is beneficial in patients with allergic rhinitis.
Login for details - Athletic performance. It is unclear if topical MSM is beneficial for improving athletic performance.
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- Alzheimer disease. Login for details
- Asthma. Login for details
- Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. Oral MSM has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear.
Login for details - Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Login for details
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Login for details
- Constipation. Login for details
- Diabetes. Login for details
- Dyspepsia. Login for details
- Exercise-induced muscle damage. It is unclear if oral MSM is beneficial for preventing exercise-induced muscle damage.
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- Hemorrhoids. Topical MSM has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear.
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- Interstitial cystitis. Login for details
- Muscle cramps. Login for details
- Osteoporosis. Login for details
- Periodontitis. Login for details
- Pneumonia. Login for details
- Postoperative pain. Oral MSM has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear.
Login for details - Rheumatoid arthritis. Login for details
- Rosacea. Oral MSM has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear.
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- Stretch marks (striae gravidarum). Login for details
- Systemic lupus erythematosus. Login for details
- Temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Login for details
- Tendinopathy. Oral MSM has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear.
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When taken by mouth: MSM is possibly safe when used for up to 6 months. In some people, MSM might cause nausea, diarrhea, bloating, and stomach discomfort.
When applied to the skin: MSM is possibly safe when used in combination with other ingredients, such as silymarin or hyaluronic acid and tea tree oil, for up to 20 days.
Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if MSM is safe to use when pregnant or breast feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.Varicose veins and other circulatory problems (chronic venous insufficiency): Applying a lotion that contains MSM to the lower limbs can increase swelling and pain in people with varicose veins and other circulatory problems.
There are no known interactions with medications. Before taking this product, talk with your health professional if you take any medications.
There are no known interactions with herbs and supplements.
There are no known interactions with foods.
MSM has most often been used by adults in doses of 1-6 grams by mouth daily for up to 16 weeks. MSM is also available in combination products, and topical creams and gels. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what type of product and dose might be best for a specific condition.
Crystalline DMSO, Dimethylsulfone, Diméthylsulfone, Dimethyl Sulfone MSM, DMSO2, Methyl Sulfone, Methyl Sulfonyl Methane, Methyl Sulphonyl Methane, Méthyle Sulfonyle Méthane, Méthyle Sulphonyle Méthane, Méthylsulfonylméthane, Metilsulfonilmentano, MSM, Sulfone de Diméthyle MSM, Sulfone de Méthyle, Sulfonyl Sulfur.
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