Dimethyl Sulfoxide
(DMSO)

DMSO has the formula (CH3)2SO and is an organosulfur compound. This is a colorless liquid that is an important polar aprotic solvent. It dissolves both polar and nonpolar compounds and is miscible in a wide range of organic solvents as well as water. It has a distinctive property of penetrating the skin very quickly, causing someone to taste it soon after it comes into contact with the skin. The taste of DMSO has been described as oyster- or garlic-like.

DMSO is very well known in the Veterinary world for horses. It is used as a liniment for horses. DMSO can be used alone or in combination with other ingredients. In most cases the intended function of the DMSO is as a solvent, to carry the other ingredients across the skin. Also in horses, DMSO is used intravenously, again alone or in combination with other drugs. When used alone it is used for the treatment of increased intracranial pressure and/or cerebral edema in horses.

When applying DMSO you must ALWAYS WEAR GLOVES. It is not good to get it on the skin. If it comes in contact with your skin you will soon have a garlic-like taste in your mouth. Also since the product is meant for horses it may be stronger with penetrating than it would when it is specified for human use. Always read the warnings and directions for storage and use BEFORE applying to your horse. Wear rubber or latex gloves and use a tooth brush to apply it to your horse. When using a tooth brush you can better ensure that the product will not come in contact with your skin.

Rubber or Latex gloves MUST be used.

Any Tooth brush will work to apply DMSO.

My farrier introduced me to DMSO to use on my horse Jack. He has a calcium deposit on his right front knee. My farrier mentioned that DMSO could help break down the calcium build up. It may not totally get rid of the calcium but it would not hurt to try.

DMSO comes in different sizes. Refer to your Vet before you apply DMSO.

Back to Horse Health | Horse Defect | Horse Facts | Horse and Pony Breeds

The Material contained herein may not be reproduced without the prior written approval of the author. Contents & Graphics Copyright © Horses With Amie (C) 2006-. All Rights Reserved. Our work is not Public Domain.