DMSO in Practice: Real-World Uses and Precautions

Frequently Asked Questions About DMSO

Is DMSO safe to use?

DMSO can be safe under certain conditions, but purity and dosage matter. Only pharmaceutical or lab-grade DMSO should ever be considered, and it should always be used under professional guidance. Industrial-grade products are unsafe for human application.

Why does DMSO make you smell like garlic?

One of DMSO’s breakdown products is dimethyl sulfide, which has a distinctive garlic-like odor. This smell can appear on the breath, skin, and even urine shortly after use. It’s harmless, but often unpleasant.

Is DMSO legal in the UK and US?

Yes, but with restrictions. In the US, the FDA has approved DMSO only for treating interstitial cystitis. In the UK and many other countries, it is legal to buy and use, but not approved as a licensed medicine for most conditions.

Can DMSO cure cancer?

No. While DMSO has been studied for its effects in cancer research, there is no evidence it cures cancer. Its most promising role may be as a drug delivery agent, helping cancer drugs reach target cells more effectively.

Can I buy DMSO over the counter?

DMSO is widely available online, but the quality varies. Always look for pharmaceutical-grade suppliers and avoid industrial-grade DMSO, which may contain toxic impurities.

What are the most common side effects?

Mild side effects include skin irritation, itching, and a garlic-like odor. Less commonly, people may experience dryness, rashes, or eye irritation.

Can DMSO be used for pets?

Yes — especially in horses and dogs under veterinary supervision. However, dosing and safety are highly species-dependent, so DMSO should never be given to animals without a veterinarian’s guidance.

👉 Want more detail? Read our dedicated blogs: DMSO Safety and Side Effects: What You Need to Know, DMSO and Animals: Veterinary Uses, DMSO and Cancer Research: What’s Actually Known.