[Dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) in horses: a literature review].

The research article reviews the applications of dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO) in treating various conditions in horses, including central nervous system trauma, chronic endometritis, locomotor apparatus trauma, and ischaemic bowel pathophysiology. It also discusses DMSO’s anti-inflammatory effects and its ability to enhance the effects of other drugs.

Usage of DMSO in Equine Medicine

• The primary discussion in this article revolves around the use of dimethyl sulphoxide, or DMSO, in equine, i.e., horse medicine. DMSO is evaluated for its efficacy in treating a variety of conditions.
• It is used for trauma of the central nervous system in horses, assisting in the treatment of injuries affecting the horse’s brain and spinal cord.
• DMSO is also effective in treating chronic endometritis, an inflammation of the inner lining of the uterus, which is a common cause of infertility in mares.
• For trauma of the locomotor apparatus, encompassing injuries to the horse’s legs and feet (critical to their movement), DMSO provides aid in recovery.
• Last but not least, the research article highlights the usage of DMSO in ischaemic bowel pathophysiology, i.e., conditions resulting from an inadequate blood supply to the horse’s intestinal tract.

DMSO’s Effects and Capabilities

• Another critical aspect reviewed in the article is DMSO’s inherent effects and functionalities. For instance, DMSO’s ability to reduce the formation of connective tissue is particularly beneficial in abdominal surgery for horses. Reducing connective tissue formation helps minimize scarring and boosts the healing process.
• DMSO’s potent anti-inflammatory effects aid in the treatment of muscle trauma, tendinitis (inflammation of the tendon), laminitis (a painful condition that affects the feet of hooved animals), and arthritis.
• DMSO was also found to potentiate, i.e., enhance the effects of other drugs, making it a valuable asset in combination therapies.

Administration, Dosage, and Local Legislation

• The paper mentions the most common dose of DMSO, being 1g per kg of the horse’s body weight. This amount is normally administered intravenously in a solution of up to 40% DMSO. The treatment typically lasts a maximum of 5 days.
• Despite the noted benefits, the research also emphasizes that DMSO has not been approved for use in horses in the Netherlands. This statement underscores the necessity of localized legal considerations when considering drug applications in veterinary medicine.