Methylsulfoylmethane
Also known as: MSM, methyl sulfone, dimethyl sulfone, Methylsulfonylmethane
Overview
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a naturally occurring organosulfur compound found in small quantities in various foods like fruits, vegetables, grains, and milk. It is also widely synthesized and used as a dietary supplement. MSM is primarily recognized for its sulfur content and its ability to penetrate tissues, which is thought to contribute to its purported anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and joint health benefits, particularly in conditions like osteoarthritis (OA). While research on MSM is ongoing, with a mix of in vitro, animal, and human studies, high-quality evidence from large randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and comprehensive meta-analyses remains somewhat limited. The current body of evidence presents mixed results, with some smaller RCTs suggesting modest benefits, while meta-analyses have indicated no statistically or clinically significant effects on pain reduction in OA.
Benefits
MSM is mainly investigated for its potential to reduce pain and improve function in osteoarthritis. However, a meta-analysis of three RCTs (N=326) found only a non-significant reduction in pain (mean difference on visual analogue scale ~6.3 mm, 95% CI −0.49 to 13.17), indicating no statistically or clinically significant benefit for OA pain relief. Despite this, MSM does exhibit antioxidant properties, reducing markers of oxidative stress such as malondialdehyde and nitric oxide, and increasing antioxidant enzymes like glutathione, catalase, and superoxide dismutase in animal models and some human exercise studies. These antioxidant effects are more consistently observed in preclinical and acute human exercise contexts, suggesting potential for reducing exercise-induced oxidative damage in healthy adults. However, the clinical relevance of these antioxidant effects for chronic conditions is not yet clear. The effect sizes for pain reduction in OA are generally small and inconsistent, while antioxidant effects appear more robust in specific contexts.
How it works
MSM's mechanism of action primarily involves its ability to reduce oxidative stress, not through direct reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging, but by suppressing mitochondrial ROS generation. It also modulates various inflammatory pathways and may help restore glutathione redox balance, which is crucial for cellular antioxidant defense. The sulfur content of MSM is hypothesized to play a role in joint tissue repair and maintenance, although the precise molecular targets and pathways are not yet fully elucidated. MSM is well absorbed orally and can effectively penetrate various tissues, potentially enhancing the delivery and efficacy of other compounds when used in combination.
Side effects
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is generally considered safe for consumption and is associated with a low incidence of adverse effects. Common side effects, occurring in more than 5% of users, are rare. When side effects do occur, they are typically mild and may include gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating or diarrhea, and occasional headaches. There are no significant drug interactions or contraindications that have been firmly established for MSM. However, due to a lack of sufficient research, firm safety conclusions cannot be made for special populations such as pregnant or lactating women, or children. Individuals in these groups should exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional before using MSM supplements.
Dosage
Effective doses of MSM in clinical trials for osteoarthritis typically range from 1.5 to 6 grams per day. However, an optimal dosing regimen is not well established due to the inconsistent efficacy data across studies. MSM is commonly administered orally, available in both powder and capsule forms. While some research suggests that the timing of MSM intake, such as before exercise, might influence its antioxidant effects, there is no standardized recommendation for timing relative to meals or specific activities. It is important to note that while MSM is generally considered safe, individuals should adhere to recommended dosages and consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate dose for their specific needs and health conditions.
FAQs
Is MSM effective for osteoarthritis pain?
Current meta-analytic evidence suggests that MSM does not provide statistically or clinically meaningful pain relief for osteoarthritis, despite some smaller studies showing modest benefits.
Is MSM safe to take?
Yes, MSM is generally considered safe with a low incidence of mild side effects, primarily gastrointestinal discomfort or headache. Serious adverse effects are rare.
How long does it take to see effects from MSM?
Antioxidant effects may be observed acutely, particularly in exercise-related contexts. However, for conditions like osteoarthritis, any potential symptom improvement, if it occurs, would likely require weeks of consistent use, though evidence for this is limited.
Does MSM work better when combined with other supplements?
Some studies have investigated MSM in combination with other agents, such as boswellic acids. While these combinations might show benefits, the independent efficacy of MSM in such scenarios often remains unclear.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3135791/ – This meta-analysis by Kim et al. (2011) included three randomized controlled trials (N=326) investigating MSM and DMSO for osteoarthritis pain. It concluded that MSM did not provide a statistically or clinically significant reduction in pain, with a mean difference of 6.34 mm on the VAS (95% CI −0.49 to 13.17), despite the high quality of the included trials.
- https://archive.hshsl.umaryland.edu/bitstreams/a8cde564-d4c1-4570-bd25-20196e2c25a7/download – This systematic review from the University of Maryland (2020) provided a comprehensive overview of MSM, including clinical trials and expert input. It found limited and inconsistent evidence for MSM's efficacy in osteoarthritis and other conditions, while noting its favorable safety profile.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5372953/ – This review by Butawan et al. (2017) summarized MSM's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, highlighting its ability to reduce oxidative stress markers in human exercise studies. It emphasized MSM's safety and potential as an adjunctive therapy, while also calling for more rigorous clinical trials to solidify its therapeutic role.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1093/ecam/nep045 – This citation refers to a study or review related to MSM, likely contributing to the understanding of its effects on osteoarthritis or its general mechanisms. While the specific summary is not detailed in the provided text, it is included as a relevant research source for MSM's efficacy and safety profile.
