Topical or systemic anti-inflammatory drug. DMSO is rapidly absorbed through the skin, and will carry many medications along with it. DMSO's ability to scavenge products and mediators of inflammation would make it rational treatment in such conditions. However, until recently, research efforts have had difficulties at finding evidence of efficacy at reducing inflammation or swelling when used systemically. This article is about the contraindications, toxic effects, dosages, and association drug rules that apply to this medication. It also contains some recent evidence of efficacy of DMSO used topically against chronic and acute inflammatory musculoskeletal problems.