Evidence supporting the use of: Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
For the health condition: Fibromyalgia Syndrome
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a sulfur-containing compound commonly found in dietary supplements promoted for joint health and chronic pain conditions, including fibromyalgia. The rationale for MSM use in fibromyalgia is primarily based on its purported anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which could theoretically alleviate some symptoms of the syndrome, such as muscle pain and fatigue. Scientifically, the evidence is limited but not entirely absent. A small double-blind, placebo-controlled trial published in 2011 investigated the effects of MSM in patients with fibromyalgia. The study reported improvements in certain symptoms, such as pain and physical function, after 12 weeks of MSM supplementation. However, the sample size was small, and the study design had limitations, including a lack of long-term follow-up and potential bias. Systematic reviews on MSM for chronic pain conditions frequently note the paucity of high-quality studies specific to fibromyalgia, and larger, more rigorous trials are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety. While MSM is generally well-tolerated, its use for fibromyalgia is not supported by strong clinical evidence, and most major guidelines for fibromyalgia management do not recommend it. In summary, while there is some preliminary scientific interest and a small amount of direct evidence, the overall support for MSM as a treatment for fibromyalgia is weak, and its use should be approached with caution.
More about Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
More about Fibromyalgia Syndrome
Other ingredients used for Fibromyalgia Syndrome
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)Acetyl L-carnitine
ashwagandha
beta caryophyllene
Cannabis sativa oil
coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
turmeric
curcumin
ginseng
hemp oil
magnesium
Melatonin
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC)
protein
reishi mushroom
SAMe (S-adenosyl-L-methionine disulfate p-toluensulfate)
ubiquinol
vitamin B12
vitamin D
vitamin D3
peony
polyphenols
cayenne pepper
Curcuma
cannabidiol
D-Ribose
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA)
ribose
Sichuan Lovage
Other health conditions supported by Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
ArthritisBursitis
Cartilage Damage
Fibromyalgia Syndrome
Inflammation
Pain (general remedies for)
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Sprains
Wounds and Sores
Products containing Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
Nature's Sunshine Everflex with Hyaluronic Acid
Nature's Sunshine MSM
Nature's Sunshine Structural System (30 Day Program)