Does DMSO damage the liver?

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) can potentially damage the liver, especially with long-term or high-dose use. Key points regarding the risks and side effects of DMSO related to liver health include:

• Absorption and Distribution: DMSO is readily absorbed through the skin and distributed throughout the body, including the liver. Impurities in industrial-grade DMSO can potentially harm the liver .
• Diabetes and Liver Function: Topical use of DMSO can interfere with insulin function, potentially affecting the liver in diabetics. Regular liver function tests (every 6 months) are recommended for individuals with liver conditions using DMSO .
• Protective Effects in Animal Studies: Animal studies show that late administration of DMSO (10 hours after exposure) can protect the liver from hepatotoxic compounds like halothane, chloroform, and bromobenzene. However, the protective mechanism remains unclear .
• Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury: A study found that DMSO decreased liver enzyme levels and histological damage caused by ischemia-reperfusion injury in rabbits, suggesting a potential protective effect against some types of acute liver injury .
• Liver Toxicity: Long-term or high-dose DMSO use has been associated with liver toxicity and elevated liver enzymes, indicating potential liver damage .

In summary, while DMSO may have protective effects against certain acute liver injuries, there are concerns about potential liver toxicity, especially with chronic use or exposure to impure industrial-grade products. Caution is warranted, and liver function monitoring is recommended for those with pre-existing liver conditions using DMSO .

Citations:

• RxList: DMSO (Dimethylsulfoxide)
• Frontiers in Pharmacology
• PubMed: Hepatotoxic Compound Study
• PubMed: Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury Study