Dimethyl sulfoxide
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a colorless liquid widely used for its ability to dissolve many substances and for its medicinal properties. This Wikipedia page provides a comprehensive overview of DMSO, covering its chemical properties, production methods, uses, and health effects.
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This Wikipedia page provides a comprehensive overview of DMSO, covering its chemical properties, production methods, uses, and health effects. The page begins by describing the chemical properties of DMSO, noting its high boiling point, low toxicity, and ability to mix well with both polar and nonpolar compounds. It explains the various methods for producing DMSO, including its synthesis from dimethyl sulfide or dimethyl sulfate. Additionally, the page highlights the importance of DMSO as a solvent and its ability to enhance the permeability of cellular membranes, which has numerous applications in biological, pharmaceutical, and chemical research. The page then delves into the various uses of DMSO across different industries. It discusses its application as a solvent for pharmaceuticals and chemical compounds, as well as its use in the production of polymers and plastics. Furthermore, it highlights DMSO's role in cryopreservation and as a popular additive in topical therapies due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. DMSO's known ability to penetrate the skin efficiently also makes it a useful carrier for delivering drugs. The health effects and safety considerations of DMSO are also covered in detail. The page outlines its low toxicity in humans, but also highlights potential side effects such as skin irritation or allergic reactions. It emphasizes the need for proper handling and storage to avoid contamination or adverse reactions when using DMSO. Additionally, the page provides information about regulatory aspects, including the approval status of DMSO by different regulatory authorities worldwide and its classification as a prescription or over-the-counter substance in some countries. It also mentions the controversy surrounding the use of DMSO as an alternative medicine and some unsupported claims made about its therapeutic potential. Overall, the Wikipedia page on dimethyl sulfoxide provides comprehensive and well-referenced information about the chemical, its production, applications, health effects, and regulatory aspects. It serves as a valuable resource for researchers, scientists, healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in learning about DMSO.