Dubious effect of dimethylsulphoxide (DMSO) therapy on amyloid deposits and amyloidosis

Abstract

Data from the literature on DMSO therapy for amyloidosis in laboratory animals and man are reviewed and found to be inconclusive. In hamsters with casein-induced amyloidosis, as well as in dogs with spontaneous amyloidosis, therapeutic experiments with DMSO were performed. In these investigations no effect of DMSO on amyloid and amyloidosis was found.

Optimal Treatment Strategy for Amyloid A Amyloidosis in Rheumatic Diseases – Anti-Interleukin-6 Receptor Therapy

“…For treatment of AA amyloidosis from a different standpoint, the organic solvent dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is sometimes administered in an attempt to eliminate AA protein by increasing the degree of solubility of amyloid protein deposited in the tissues. Although not proven in controlled comparative studies, several case reports and case series reports suggesting its usefulness have appeared (Ravid et al, 1982, Gruys et al, 2005. Eprodisate, a mimetic of glycosaminoglycan that serves as the extracellular scaffold for amyloid deposits in tissues, is expected to show therapeutic effects because it prevents accumulation of AA protein.…”