DMSO (Diamethyl Sulfoxide)
DMSO (RIMSO) is a chemical used for the treatment of interstitial cystitis. The Food and Drug Administration approve it for this purpose. The DMSO is instilled directly into the bladder through a catheter passed through the urethra. The medication is held in the bladder for 15-30 minutes, then you empty your bladder normally.The reason that DMSO improves the symptoms of interstitial cystitis is not known. DMSO is known to have the following characteristics:
- Increases blood flow to the area
- Carries small molecules with it (possibly into the bladder tissue such as hydrocortisone)
- Relieves pain
- Decreases inflammation
- Prevents scar tissue
- Stimulates healing of damaged cells
Precautions
- Periodic checks of kidney, liver, and bone marrow function are recommended, although no specific toxicity to these organs is known.
- A few people are hypersensitive to DMSO, secondary to histamine release.
How DMSO is used? DMSO is instilled into your bladder weekly for six weeks. Some patients continue with weekly instillations for longer periods; others stop for a period of time and others go to a maintenance schedule with instillations every two to four weeks. Your schedule will be determined by your response and individual needs. Often, several instillations are required before any significant benefit is noted. How will this drug be administered? The drug comes in liquid form and will be instilled into the bladder through a catheter. The medication will remain in the bladder for at least 15 minutes and then you will be asked to urinate to remove the medication from the bladder. What are the side effects from this medication? DMSO will cause you to have a "garlicky breath" and skin odor over the first 12 hours, although in some patients it may linger for one or two days. |