Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM): Side Effects

Takeaways

• MSM is a sulfur-containing compound used as a dietary supplement
• Common side effects include digestive issues and skin reactions
• Dosage affects the likelihood of experiencing side effects
• MSM may interact with certain medications
• Long-term effects of MSM use require further research
• Consult a healthcare provider before starting MSM supplementation

What is MSM?

Methylsulfonylmethane, often called MSM, is a compound that contains sulfur. It’s a popular dietary supplement. While MSM is found naturally in some foods and in the human body, supplements provide a higher concentration.

MSM has a simple chemical makeup, consisting of sulfur, oxygen, and methyl groups. This structure allows it to take part in various processes within the body. The sulfur in MSM is why it’s frequently used by people looking to support their joint health.

MSM has become increasingly popular as a supplement recently. People use it for several reasons, including managing joint pain, reducing swelling, and helping with skin health. Its use has expanded from traditional medicine into the broader wellness field.

How MSM Works in the Body

Absorption and Distribution

When you take MSM by mouth, your body absorbs it quickly. Your digestive system processes MSM effectively. It then enters your bloodstream and travels to different parts of your body. The small size of MSM molecules helps it easily pass through cell membranes.

How well your body absorbs MSM can be affected by several things. These include the form of the supplement and how healthy your digestive system is. Some research suggests that taking MSM with vitamin C might help with absorption¹. However, more studies are needed to fully understand this.

Cellular Effects

Inside your cells, MSM interacts with different structures and processes. It may change how easily things pass through cell membranes. This could affect how cells communicate and work. MSM also seems to have antioxidant qualities.

Studies suggest that MSM might help reduce swelling and oxidative stress. It may do this by affecting certain cell pathways. These effects could explain some of the benefits people report from MSM. However, scientists are still working to fully understand how it works.

This table shows how MSM’s effects on cells compare to other common joint supplements. While each supplement works in its own way, they all aim to support joint health. The specific properties of MSM make it different from other supplements that contain sulfur.

Common Side Effects

While many people can take MSM without issues, some do experience side effects. How severe or how often these side effects occur can differ from person to person. Knowing about common side effects helps people make informed choices about using MSM.

Common, mild side effects of MSM include:

• Stomach discomfort
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Itching

These side effects often appear when you first start taking MSM. They may lessen as your body gets used to the supplement. However, some people continue to experience problems even with long-term use.

The exact reasons for these side effects are not fully understood. Some may be due to how MSM affects cell functions. Others might be caused by individual sensitivities or how MSM interacts with other substances.

There is limited research on how common MSM side effects are. Personal reports suggest that many people do not have significant problems. However, well-controlled studies are needed to find out the true rates of side effects.

Gastrointestinal Side Effects

Digestive Discomfort

Stomach-related issues are among the most common side effects reported with MSM. These can include feeling bloated, having gas, and general discomfort in the digestive system. The severity of these symptoms varies from person to person.

Several things might cause digestive issues with MSM. The sulfur content could affect the balance of bacteria in the gut. MSM might also increase the amount of acid your stomach produces. Additionally, your body might need time to adjust to processing higher amounts of sulfur.

Nausea and Diarrhea

Some people taking MSM report feeling sick to their stomach or having diarrhea. These symptoms can be uncomfortable. They often happen shortly after taking MSM supplements.

The exact cause of these symptoms is not clear. They might be a result of how MSM affects the digestive system. Individual sensitivities may also play a role. Taking MSM with food might help reduce these effects. Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it could also help.

Skin-Related Side Effects

Itching and Rashes

Skin reactions are another possible side effect of MSM. Some people experience itching or develop rashes after taking MSM. These symptoms can range from mild to severe.

The reasons behind these skin effects are not fully understood. MSM’s influence on cellular processes could affect skin cells. Some people might have allergic reactions to MSM or other ingredients in the supplement. Individual skin sensitivity could also contribute.

Acne

Reports on how MSM affects acne are mixed. Some people say MSM improves their skin, while others report breakouts. This difference makes it hard to know for sure how MSM impacts acne.

MSM’s potential effects on how much oil your skin produces might influence acne. Its anti-inflammatory qualities could also play a role. More research is needed to understand these conflicting reports. Individual skin types and other factors likely contribute to the different responses.

Headaches and Fatigue

Some people who take MSM report headaches or feeling tired. These symptoms can be mild or more severe. They often happen when starting MSM or increasing the dose.

The exact reasons for these symptoms are not clear. MSM’s effect on cell processes may influence energy levels. Changes in blood flow or how the nervous system works could contribute to headaches. Individual sensitivities and overall health might also be factors.

To manage these side effects, try changing your MSM dose. Taking the supplement at a different time of day might also help. Drinking enough water and eating a balanced diet can support your well-being while taking MSM.

Allergic Reactions

Although rare, allergic reactions to MSM can occur. These reactions can be serious and need immediate medical care. It’s important to know the signs of an allergic reaction.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include:

• Severe rash or hives
• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Rapid heartbeat
• Dizziness or fainting

If you experience these symptoms after taking MSM, get medical help right away. Stop using the supplement and tell your doctor about the reaction. Allergic reactions can be life-threatening and require quick treatment.

Long-Term Side Effects

Our understanding of the long-term effects of MSM is still developing. Most studies on MSM have looked at short-term use. More research is needed to fully understand the effects of taking MSM for a long time.

Current information suggests that MSM is generally safe for long-term use. However, people respond differently. Some people report continued benefits, while others experience fewer benefits over time.

This table shows what we know about using MSM over different periods. While short-term use seems safe for most people, we need to study long-term effects further. Ongoing research will help clarify the safety of using MSM for extended periods.

Drug Interactions

MSM might interact with certain medications. These interactions could change how well the drugs work or increase side effects. Understanding possible interactions is important for using MSM safely.

Medications that might interact with MSM include:

• Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin)
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Certain diabetes medications
• Some antidepressants

MSM’s effects on blood clotting and swelling could affect how these medications work. It may also change how your body processes certain drugs. Always talk to your doctor before using MSM with other medications.

Dosage and Side Effect Risk

The risk of side effects from MSM often depends on the dose. Higher doses generally increase the chance of unwanted effects. Finding the right balance is important for getting the most benefits while minimizing risks.

Recommended doses of MSM vary depending on what it’s being used for. Common doses range from 500 mg to 6 grams per day. Some studies have used even higher doses. Starting with a lower dose and slowly increasing it can help reduce side effects.

Steps to safely start taking MSM:

1. Start with a low dose (e.g., 500 mg per day)
2. Monitor for any side effects
3. Gradually increase the dose over several weeks
4. Stay within recommended dosage ranges
5. Consult a healthcare provider if side effects occur

Following these steps can help you find a dose of MSM that works well for you. Remember that people react differently. What works for one person might not be right for another.

Special Populations and MSM Side Effects

Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women

The safety of MSM during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well known. There is limited research on how MSM affects fetal development or breast milk. Because of this lack of information, many experts advise caution.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult their doctors before using MSM. The potential benefits might not outweigh the unknown risks. Other treatments with more safety information might be better during these times.

Elderly Individuals

As you get older, your body might process supplements like MSM differently. Older adults might be more sensitive to its effects. They may also have health conditions or take medications that interact with MSM.

Older people should be careful when starting to use MSM. Starting with low doses can help determine how well they tolerate it. Regular check-ups with a doctor are important. This ensures that using MSM stays safe and helpful as health needs change over time.

Minimizing Side Effects

While side effects can happen with MSM, there are several things you can do to reduce the risks. Being careful when taking supplements can make your experience with MSM better.

Steps to reduce the risk of MSM side effects:

1. Choose a high-quality, reputable MSM product
2. Start with a low dose and increase gradually
3. Take MSM with food to reduce stomach discomfort
4. Stay hydrated throughout the day
5. Monitor your body’s response closely

Paying attention to the quality of your supplement is important. Look for products that have been tested by a third party for purity and strength. This can help reduce the risk of contaminants that might cause side effects.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While many MSM side effects are mild, some situations require medical care. Knowing when to seek help ensures your safety when using MSM supplements.

Symptoms that mean you should get medical help right away include:

• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
• Persistent or severe stomach pain
• Unexplained bruising or bleeding
• Significant changes in heart rate or blood pressure
• Severe skin reactions that don’t improve

If you experience these symptoms, stop taking MSM and seek medical help immediately. Bring your supplement bottle to your appointment. This helps your healthcare provider understand what might be causing your symptoms.

Alternatives to MSM

If you’re worried about MSM side effects, there are other options. These supplements aim to provide similar benefits but work in different ways. Knowing about these options can help you make informed choices about supporting your joint and overall health.

Common alternatives to MSM include:

• Glucosamine
• Chondroitin
• Collagen
• Omega-3 fatty acids
• Turmeric/Curcumin

Each of these supplements has its own potential benefits and side effects. For example, glucosamine is often used for joint health but may affect blood sugar. Omega-3s help reduce swelling but can affect blood thinning.

This table provides a summary of alternatives to MSM. Consider talking about these options with a doctor. They can help you decide which supplement is best for your needs and health.

FAQ: People Also Ask

1. Butawan, M., Benjamin, R. L., & Bloomer, R. J. (2017). Methylsulfonylmethane: Applications and Safety of a Novel Dietary Supplement. Nutrients, 9(3), 290. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5372953/

² Debbi, E. M., Agar, G., Fichman, G., Ziv, Y. B., Kardosh, R., Halperin, N., Elbaz, A., Beer, Y., & Debi, R. (2011). Efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane supplementation on osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomized controlled study. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 11, 50. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3141601/

³ Kim, L. S., Axelrod, L. J., Howard, P., Buratovich, N., & Waters, R. F. (2006). Efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) in osteoarthritis pain of the knee: a pilot clinical trial. Osteoarthritis and Cartilage, 14(3), 286-294. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1063458405002554

⁴ Usha, P. R., & Naidu, M. U. (2004). Randomised, Double-Blind, Parallel, Placebo-Controlled Study of Oral Glucosamine, Methylsulfonylmethane and their Combination in Osteoarthritis. Clinical Drug Investigation, 24(6), 353-363. https://link.springer.com/article/10.2165/00044011-200424060-00005

⁵ Barrager, E., Veltmann, J. R., Schauss, A. G., & Schiller, R. N. (2002). A multicentered, open-label trial on the safety and efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane in the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 8(2), 167-173. https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/107555302317371451

⁶ Nakhostin-Roohi, B.,Barmaki, S., Khoshkhahesh, F., & Bohlooli, S. (2011). Effect of chronic supplementation with methylsulfonylmethane on oxidative stress following acute exercise in untrained healthy men. Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 63(10), 1290-1294. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.2042-7158.2011.01314.x

⁷ Kalman, D. S., Feldman, S., Scheinberg, A. R., Krieger, D. R., & Bloomer, R. J. (2012). Influence of methylsulfonylmethane on markers of exercise recovery and performance in healthy men: a pilot study. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 9(1), 46. https://jissn.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1550-2783-9-46

⁸ Anthonavage, M., Benjamin, R. L., & Withee, E. D. (2015). Effects of oral supplementation with methylsulfonylmethane on skin health and wrinkle reduction. Natural Medicine Journal, 7(11). https://www.naturalmedicinejournal.com/journal/2015-11/effects-oral-supplementation-methylsulfonylmethane-skin-health-and-wrinkle-reduction

⁹ Jokar, A., Masoumi, K., Saki, N., Maraghi, S., & Khanbabayi, G. (2017). Comparison of the Healing Effect of Methylsulfonylmethane and Hyaluronic Acid in Diabetic Foot Ulcers: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Journal of Wound Care, 26(5), 245-250. https://www.magonlinelibrary.com/doi/abs/10.12968/jowc.2017.26.5.245

¹⁰ Withee, E. D., Tippens, K. M., Dehen, R., Tibbitts, D., Hanes, D., & Zwickey, H. (2017). Effects of Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) on exercise-induced oxidative stress, muscle damage, and pain following a half-marathon: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14, 24. https://jissn.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12970-017-0181-z

¹¹ Butawan, M., & Bloomer, R. J. (2018). Methylsulfonylmethane: Applications and Safety of a Novel Dietary Supplement. In Nutrition and Enhanced Sports Performance (pp. 101-111). Academic Press. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780128139226000092

¹² Lubis, A. M. T., Siagian, C., Wonggokusuma, E., Marsetio, A. F., & Setyohadi, B. (2017). Comparison of Glucosamine-Chondroitin Sulfate with and without Methylsulfonylmethane in Grade I-II Knee Osteoarthritis: A Double Blind Randomized Controlled Trial. Acta Medica Indonesiana, 49(2), 105-111. http://www.actamedindones.org/index.php/ijim/article/view/182

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