Organo-sulfur compound that penetrates biological membranes and carries dissolved drugs transcutaneously. Has intrinsic anti-inflammatory (free radical scavenger, hydroxyl radical neutralization), analgesic, and diuretic properties.
At a glance
Class
Anti-inflammatory / Penetration Enhancer
Storage
Store at room temperature; may solidify at cold temperatures — warm to liquefy (freezes at 18°C)
Dosing
Used topically for musculoskeletal inflammation, CNS edema (IV 1 g/kg in 20% sol
Route
Topical, Intravesical
Frequency
q12–24h (topical)
Used for CNS inflammation/edema (controversial) and topical anti-inflammatory
Frequency
q12–24h (topical)
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Safety
Local skin reaction (topical)Ophthalmic exam with chronic usePCV/hematocrit (IV use)Clinical response
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO)?
Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) is a anti-inflammatory / penetration enhancer used in pets. Organo-sulfur compound that penetrates biological membranes and carries dissolved drugs transcutaneously. Has intrinsic anti-inflammatory (free radical scavenger, hydroxyl radical neutralization), analgesic, and diuretic properties.
›What is Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) used for in pets?
Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) is used in veterinary medicine for: Used topically for musculoskeletal inflammation, CNS edema (IV 1 g/kg in 20% sol; Used for CNS inflammation/edema (controversial) and topical anti-inflammatory.
›What is the Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) dose for dogs?
For dogs, Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) is typically dosed as follows — Used topically for musculoskeletal inflammation, CNS edema (IV 1 g/kg in 20% sol: undefined undefined Topical/Intravesical q12–24h (topical). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) dose for cats?
For cats, Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) is typically dosed as follows — Used for CNS inflammation/edema (controversial) and topical anti-inflammatory: undefined undefined Topical/IV q12–24h (topical). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) need a prescription?
Yes. Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →References
References
The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.
Textbooks & handbooks — 5
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
- Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)
Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
- AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
- RECOVER CPR Guidelines
Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2
- EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
- JVIM FAT CAT Study
Regulatory & approvals — 1
- CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
Databases — 1
- Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database