DMSO

DMSO, or dimethyl sulfoxide, is an organosulfur compound with the formula C2H6SO. It is a colorless, hygroscopic liquid that is miscible with water and many organic solvents. DMSO has a high boiling point of 189°C and a high dielectric constant, properties that make it a versatile polar aprotic solvent for chemical synthesis, analysis, and purification. It is also known for its ability to penetrate biological membranes and for its comparatively low toxicity relative to other high-boiling solvents, though it can cause irritation.

Industrial production occurs mainly by catalytic oxidation of dimethyl sulfide, and it can also be obtained as a byproduct of wood pulp processing (kraft pulping).

DMSO is used as a solvent in organic and polymer chemistry, in electrochemistry, and in pharmaceutical research. In biology and medicine, DMSO is used as a cryoprotectant for cells and tissues during freezing and as a vehicle to deliver drugs topically; it has been studied for anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects and has received limited medical approval in some jurisdictions for specific indications. It is also used in laboratory settings for tissue preservation and in the preparation of biological samples.

DMSO rapidly penetrates the skin and can carry dissolved substances with it, so skin contact should be minimized and pure products used with care. Exposure can cause skin and eye irritation; high doses may cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, or CNS effects. A characteristic garlic- or oyster-like odor may be detectable on breath or sweat after exposure.

Regulatory status varies by country; in the United States, DMSO has been approved for limited medical indications and is commonly used as a research solvent. Environmentally, DMSO is not highly persistent and is readily biodegradable; spills are typically absorbed and cleaned up with standard precautions.