Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM): Dietary Supplement

Methylsulfonylmethane is a compound that is made up of sulfur and organic compounds. It is present in milk, fruits and vegetables. Chemically, it is represented by the formula (CH3)SO2. Methylsulfonylmethane in its compound form is found in a solid state and does not have any color of its own. It is a thermally stable compound with very low polarity.

Methylsulfone and MSM are some of the other names of methylsulfonylmethane. MSM occurs in our body as a product of metabolism of dimethyl sulfoxide and certain amino acids like methionine and cysteine. It is high in sulfur content and hence used as a dietary supplement. MSM as a dietary supplement, is taken orally. Sometimes, it is taken along with glucosamine or chondroitin to obtain better results. Protein in our diet is a rich source of sulfur.

Health Benefits

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is effective in treating and preventing various health problems.
It is used to treat patients who are suffering from osteoarthritis. It really works wonders in bringing relief to symptoms of knee osteoarthritis. It can help in the prevention of the risk of osteoarthritis too. Researchers opine that it is capable of bringing down inflammation. Therefore, it is sometimes used to bring down swelling of muscles and joints. It is effectual in the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis or hay fever. It is also useful for the treatment of high cholesterol, hypertension, and some skin related problems like wrinkles, stretch marks, etc.

Side Effects

Some of the possible side effects that have been commonly observed are nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, insomnia, dizziness and headache. In case any of these conditions worsen or continue for a long period of time, then a doctor needs to be consulted immediately. Some allergic reactions like skin rashes, swellings, itching or breathing trouble may also occur.

Precautionary Measures

Dietary supplements are very different from any other medicines. It is not yet known if methylsulfonylmethane is safe for everyone. This drug is not advisable to those who are suffering from some severe chronic health related problems. It should be avoided by those who are allergic to any food, dyes or preservatives. It may not be good for pregnant woman and lactating mothers as well. However, under any of these situations, one can take methylsulfonylmethane only after taking the necessary advice from a concerned doctor.

So far, studies on interactions of methylsulfonylmethane with other drugs do not show any concrete evidence, which can suggest that it can have any tendency to interact with any specific type of medicine. Therefore, it is better to inform the doctor about all the medicines that one uses on a regular basis, even if it is some herbal medicine or vitamins, before starting the dosage.

Dietary supplements are very different from any regular medicines. There is no such regulations to maintain a specific standard for these supplements. Therefore, it may happen that the dietary supplement sold over the counter may not have the required effectiveness. Hence, it is essential to choose methylsulfonylmethane of reputable manufacturers only. And even then this should be done only after appropriate consultation of a doctor.