MSM

MSM is a compound found in many foods and available as a dietary supplement. It is often claimed to be beneficial for conditions such as allergies, yeast infections, osteoporosis, and arthritis. MSM provides the body with sulfur (used for making certain amino acids), but most people get enough sulfur from eating protein. There is little evidence suggesting that the supplement really works for most conditions.

 

What Is MSM?

MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) is a compound found in many foods such as grains, fruits, vegetables, and milk. It is also available as a dietary supplement. The supplement is claimed to be useful for treating and/or preventing many different conditions, including (but not limited to):
 
(Click Benefits of MSM for more information on the potential benefits of the supplement.)
 

How Does It Work?

The MSM molecule contains sulfur and is a source for sulfur that the body needs to make certain amino acids. However, most people get plenty of sulfur through eating protein. Researchers think that the supplement might decrease inflammation and may reduce homocysteine levels. High homocysteine levels may increase the risk of heart disease, strokes, and hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis).
 

Is MSM Effective?

Very early evidence suggests that a combination of MSM with glucosamine might help with arthritis, but there is little evidence suggesting that the supplement really works for most other uses (see Does MSM Work? for more information).
 

Dosing Information

The best doses of MSM have not been established. Studies have used varying doses, depending on several factors (including the condition being treated).
 
(Click Dosage for MSM for more information.)
 

Potential Side Effects

In the few MSM studies that have been conducted, a few side effects have been reported, including (but not limited to):
 
(Click MSM Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

Drug Interactions

There are no known drug interactions with MSM (see MSM Drug Interactions).
 

MSM Safety

Reasonable doses taken by mouth for a limited period of time are probably safe for most people, especially if high-quality supplements are used (since such supplements are less likely to be contaminated or have other problems). Some people may be more likely to experience problems due to the supplement. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider prior to starting treatment if you:
 
  • Have any chronic or severe health problems
  • Have any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant (see MSM and Pregnancy)
  • Are breastfeeding (see MSM and Breastfeeding).
     
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Is MSM Safe? for more information, including any available warnings and precautions.)
 

What If I Take an Overdose?

It is not known exactly what to expect from an overdose of the supplement.
 
(Click MSM Overdose for more information.)
 

Storage Methods for MSM

Refer to the label of your individual MSM product for information on how to best store the supplement. Keep the product out of the reach of children.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;