The

SupplementSpecialists

.com

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)

Our Overview

MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) is a naturally occurring supplement that is primarily used as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant for conditions such as arthritis and certain cancers. MSM is most commonly used in dogs and horses, but cats may benefit as well.

There have been limited studies in companion animals, with mixed results, but there is some anecdotal evidence that MSM works to treat inflammatory and immune diseases.

Background

MSM is a natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic supplement that is a metabolite of dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), which is frequently prescribed to patients suffering from musculoskeletal disorders such as osteoarthritis. MSM also provides the body with sulphur. MSM administration improved joint flexibility, reduced stiffness and swelling, and reduced pain in human studies. MSM treatment prevented cartilage degeneration in animals with rheumatoid arthritis. MSM may have additional benefits in dogs and cats, but more research is needed.

Side Effects

MSM is considered very safe.

Interactions

MSM is frequently used in conjunction with glucosamine. There is published evidence to support the hypothesis that combining the two ingredients resulted in a faster onset of analgesia (pain relief) and anti-inflammatory effects in osteoarthritis patients than either agent alone.

Indications

  • Improves arthritis
  • Supports the musculoskeletal system in the elderly

Dose Recommendations

One suggested dose of 100–1,000 mg per animal per 12–24 hr period is recommended. Some supplement brands have been seen to recommend 500–1,000 mg per 22.7 kg per 12–24 hr period.

Contraindications

None reported.

Products containing Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)

Your experience with Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)

101 Responses

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Further Reading

  1. Fetrow CW, Avila J. Professional’s handbook of complementary and alternative medicines. 3rd ed. Philadelphia (PA); Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2004:557.
  2. Kim LS, Axelrod LJ, Howard P, et al. Efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) in osteoarthritis pain of the knee: a pilot clinical trial. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2006; 14(3):286–94.
  3. Usha PR, Naidu MU. Randomised, double-blind, parallel, placebo-controlled study of oral glucosamine, methylsulfonylmethane, and their combination in osteoarthritis. Clin Drug Investig 2004;24(6):353–63.
  4. Wynn SG, Marsden S. Manual of natural veterinary medicine: science and tradition. St. Louis (MO): Mosby; 2003:341–7.
  5. Hixson O. Acute intragastric toxicity (LD-50). Dimethyl sulfone (methylsulfonylmethane, MSM). Laboratory of Vitamin Technology, Inc., Chicago, Illinois, August 21, 1958.
  6. Stargrove M, Treasure J, McKee D. Herb, nutrient, and drug interactions: clinical implications and therapeutic strategies. St. Louis (MO): Mosby Elsevier; 2008:762.

Important Notice

The indications provided on this page are suggested uses for each supplement based upon published clinical experience and/or scientific studies. They do not represent as cures or medical treatments and should be treated as advice only. The recommended doses may be provided in human form where dosing for animals has not been established. It is imperative that you understand that this information is provided as guidelines only. You should consult with a registered veterinarian before administering any nutraceutical. Where using a marketed product you should follow the manufacturers instructions.