Biological Activity

Sulfur supplied by MSM has been found in several body tissues.

Toxicity and Dosage Levels

The systemic concentration of MSM decreases with age, possibly due to changes in dietary habits. In bovine milk, concentrations range from 2-6 ppm, while concentrations in other foods range from 0.6 ppm in tomatoes to 0.11 ppm in corn1.

This is compared to DMSO which is resident for only five days post-administration, illustrating one the primary differences in the spectrum of activity between the two compounds². In man, percutaneous application results in evidence of MSM for up to three weeks, and one week after intravenous administration².

LD-50 has been determined in rats, and is in excess of 20 b/kg BW³. This is in comparison to NaCl, or common salt (generally given in ad lib amounts ) which has an LD-50 of 2.5 g/kg BW/d. No toxicity was reported in dogs receiving 3 g/gk BW/d over a period of 30 days, both orally and intravenously, though there was a drop in hematocrit during the later stages of IV study⁴. This drop returned to normal in the post-treatment period.

There has been no definitive dosages determined for horses, but maintenance estimates are calculated based on 500 kg (1,100 lb.) horse eating fresh forage. Daily intake in this situation is estimated at 1.2 mg/kg BW/d for maintenance, or 0.15% to 0.17% of the total ration¹.

Discussion

MSM is a unique substance with properties that have yet to be fully identified. Its position as a dietary supplement is comparable to that of identified vitamins. What is needed is the further study of the effects of MSM in a qualified and quantifiable manner. There are a number of beneficial research trials that are possible, with the major areas of identification being immune and respiratory applications.

Sources

1.) Pearson, T.W., H.J. Dawson, H.B. Lackey. 1981. Natural occurring levels of dimethvl sulfoxide in selected fruits, vegetables, grains and beverages. J. Agric. Food Chem. 29:1089-1901

2.) Hanson, R.R., DVM, DACVS. 1996. Will medicine keep your horse sound? The Horse, April Issue, pgs. 38-40

3.) Kocsis, J.J., S. Harkaway,R., Snyder. 1975 Biological effects of the metabolites of dimethvl sulfoxide. Ann. N.Y. Acad. Sci. 243:104-109

4.) Metcalf, J. I. 1986. MSM status report. Eq. Vet. Data 7:332-334

MSM Label Information

MSM is Methylsulfonylmethane

Directions:

Full-strength dose: one level scoop (10 grams) twice per day for one week, then continue with maintenance dose.

Maintenance dose: One level scoop once per day.

Note: One scoop (enclosed) = 10 grams

WARNINGS:

For animal use only.

Keep out of the reach of children and other animals. In case of accidental overdose, contact a health professional immediately.

This product should not be given to animals intended for human consumption.

Do not administer to cattle or other ruminants.

If animal’s condition worsens or does not improve, stop product administration and consult your veterinarian.