- Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a small, polar, aprotic solvent known for its unique physicochemical properties, which make it an effective agent in drug delivery applications.
- Originally introduced as an industrial solvent, DMSO has since found widespread use in biomedical research and pharmaceutical development due to its remarkable ability to penetrate biological membranes, dissolve both polar and non-polar compounds, and carry small molecules into cells and tissues.
- Its amphiphilic nature enables DMSO to interact with lipid bilayers and aqueous environments, facilitating the transport of drugs across typically impermeable barriers.
- One of the most notable characteristics of DMSO is its exceptional membrane permeability. It can rapidly diffuse through the skin, mucous membranes, and cellular membranes, making it a valuable vehicle for transdermal and transmucosal drug delivery. When applied topically in appropriate formulations, DMSO can transport a variety of therapeutic agents—including anti-inflammatory drugs, antifungals, antibiotics, and corticosteroids—into deeper tissues without the need for injection or systemic absorption. This property is particularly beneficial in managing localized conditions such as arthritis, musculoskeletal pain, and dermal infections.
- DMSO also plays an important role in enhancing the bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs. Many pharmaceutical compounds with limited water solubility can be dissolved in DMSO, which acts as a solubilizer, enabling higher concentrations of the drug to be administered or studied in experimental settings. In in vitro and in vivo studies, DMSO is frequently used as a solvent to deliver lipophilic or unstable compounds, especially in preclinical drug screening and pharmacological testing.
- Despite its versatility, the use of DMSO in drug delivery must be approached with caution due to its biological activity and toxicity at higher concentrations. DMSO can cause dose-dependent irritation, erythema, or burning sensations when applied topically. Additionally, because it can carry not only drugs but also other chemicals and contaminants into the body, its use must be carefully controlled to avoid unintended toxicities. In systemic applications, DMSO has shown some anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, but it can also produce side effects such as nausea, garlic-like body odor, and central nervous system effects, depending on the dose and route of administration.
- Beyond topical and transdermal delivery, DMSO is widely used as a cryoprotectant in the preservation of cells, tissues, and biological samples, especially in stem cell and reproductive medicine. Its ability to penetrate cell membranes and reduce ice crystal formation makes it invaluable for freezing and storing viable cells. This cryoprotective function indirectly contributes to drug delivery systems that involve cell-based therapies, such as engineered immune cells or stem cell transplantation.
- In recent years, DMSO has been incorporated into advanced drug delivery systems, including nanocarriers, hydrogels, and microspheres, where it enhances drug solubility and release profiles. Its compatibility with both hydrophilic and hydrophobic environments allows it to modulate the physical properties of these systems, improving drug dispersion and distribution.
