title: Effects of dimethyl sulfoxide on ocular inflammation.
abstract: The anti-inflammatory properties of topical ocular dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) were investigated using a standard experimental model of an acute inflammatory ocular inflammation. Ninety percent and 100% DMSO aggravated the inflammatory response, 50% to 70% DMSO had similar responses as the control eye; however, 30% DMSO had definite anti-inflammatory properties. Dexamethasone 0.1% was superior to 30% DMSO as an anti-inflammatory agent. From this study it is evident that high concentrations of DMSO are irritating to the inflammatory ocular model used while lower concentrations have anti-inflammatory properties. The two side effects of skin irritation at the site of application and breath odor may be the subjective influence that leads certain patients to report a beneficial effect of DMSO treatment in ocular inflammation.
mesh_terms: D000208:Acute Disease; D000287:Administration, Topical; D000328:Adult; D000818:Animals; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D003907:Dexamethasone / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004121:Dimethyl Sulfoxide / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D005060:Europe; D005128:Eye Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D007249:Inflammation / Q000188:drug therapy; D008297:Male; D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions; D011817:Rabbits; D012677:Sensation / Q000187:drug effects; D012867:Skin / Q000187:drug effects; D014481:United States
chemical_list: D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions; D003907:Dexamethasone; D004121:Dimethyl Sulfoxide