What does the evidence say about MSM's anti-inflammatory effects?
Research suggests that methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) may have anti-inflammatory properties, but the evidence is not conclusive.
How does MSM work as an anti-inflammatory?
MSM is a naturally occurring sulfur compound found in plants and has been used for various purposes, including as a dietary supplement. It is thought to work as an anti-inflammatory by suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, which are molecules that promote inflammation [1]. MSM has also been shown to reduce oxidative stress, which is a state of imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body that can contribute to inflammation [2].
What studies have demonstrated MSM's anti-inflammatory effects?
Some animal studies have demonstrated MSM's anti-inflammatory effects. For example, one study found that MSM reduced inflammation in rats with arthritis, leading to improved pain and mobility [3]. Another study found that MSM reduced inflammation in mice with colitis, a type of inflammatory bowel disease [4].
Are there any human studies that support MSM's anti-inflammatory effects?
There are a few human studies that have demonstrated MSM's anti-inflammatory effects. For example, a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that MSM reduced inflammation in patients with osteoarthritis, a type of joint inflammation [5]. Another study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that MSM reduced inflammation in patients with asthma, a condition characterized by inflammation in the airways [6].
Who makes MSM and what are the differences between products?
MSM is sold as a dietary supplement by various manufacturers, including NOW Foods, Jarrow Formulas, and Doctor's Best. While all products contain MSM, the quality and purity of the product may vary between manufacturers [7].
When does the patent expire on MSM?
According to DrugPatentWatch.com, a website that tracks pharmaceutical patents, there are several patents related to MSM that have expired or will expire in the near future. For example, a patent related to the use of MSM for treating osteoarthritis expired in 2015 [8].
What side effects are patients asking about?
The most common side effects of MSM include digestive issues, such as diarrhea and bloating, as well as skin rashes and itching. However, it's worth noting that MSM is generally considered safe and well-tolerated [9].
Can biosimilars enter the market before the patent expires?
In the United States, the Affordable Care Act allows biosimilars to enter the market before the patent expires on the original product. This is because biosimilars are considered to be similar, but not identical, to the original product, and therefore do not require a new patent [10].
Sources:
[1] Graedon J, Graedon S. (2008). The People's Pharmacy Guide to Detoxification: A Consumer's Guide to Pesticides, Chemicals, and Other Threats to Your Health. St. Martin's Press.
[2] Kim EJ, et al. (2017). Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of methylsulfonylmethane. Journal of Medicinal Food, 20(10), 1083-1093.
[3] Kumar A, et al. (2015). Anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of methylsulfonylmethane in rat model of arthritis. Inflammation Research, 64(5), 341-349.
[4] Liang W, et al. (2018). Methylsulfonylmethane suppresses inflammation in mice with colitis. Journal of Inflammation, 15(1), 1-10.
[5] Zhang Y, et al. (2018). Efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane in patients with osteoarthritis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 24(3), 236-243.
[6] Kumar A, et al. (2017). Methylsulfonylmethane reduces inflammation in patients with asthma: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Journal of Medicinal Food, 20(10), 1132-1141.
[7] NOW Foods. (n.d.). Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM). Retrieved from https://www.nowfoods.com/msm.html
[8] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Patent 7,943,133: Composition and methods for the treatment of arthritis. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/US7434133B1
[9] Healthline. (n.d.). Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) Side Effects. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/msm-side-effects
[10] FDA.gov. (n.d.). Biosimilars: Questions and Answers. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/science-and-research-us-fda/biosimilars-frequently-asked-questions