Home / Ingredients / Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
Evidence reviewed: 2026-10-02
Evidence is too limited to draw reliable conclusions for osteoarthritis or chronic pain.
The evidence base remains small. A meta-analysis including MSM/DMSO trials did not find a clinically meaningful reduction in osteoarthritis pain, and authoritative reviews continue to conclude that reliable efficacy conclusions cannot be drawn.
Small studies use different doses, durations, and combination products, making generalized efficacy claims unreliable.
The limited evidence base also limits confidence about uncommon adverse effects and long-term use, especially in multi-ingredient products.
V-ASCULAX, V-CURCUMAX, V-DAILY, V-ITADOL, and V-DAILY SACHET list MSM, but current manufacturer pages do not establish a study-matched MSM dose. Finished-product joint or pain claims remain unsupported.
Meta-analysis of the related nutritional supplements dimethyl sulfoxide and methylsulfonylmethane in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee (Meta-analysis of randomized or quasi-randomized trials; PMID 19474240)
Population/scope: 3 eligible trials; 326 participants, including one MSM trial
Evidence scope: Osteoarthritis pain
Finding: The pooled pain reduction was not statistically or clinically significant.
Limitations: Very small evidence base, mixed DMSO/MSM interventions, heterogeneity, and short/inadequate treatment periods limit inference about MSM.
Directness: Relevant human evidence ยท verified 2026-10-02
Important: Ingredient-level evidence is not proof that a finished product has the same effect. Dose, form, population, duration, and formulation must match.
For informational purposes only; not individualized medical advice.