Do you also get knee pain as you get older? Do you feel stiff and sore joints when you wake up in the morning? These are common problems for many people in our country. So, at times like these, some people are tempted to use various supplements that a friend told them about or saw in an advertisement. One such supplement that has become very popular is MSM. So today, let's talk about what MSM really is, what are the benefits of it, and what we need to be careful about.
What is this MSM?
Simply put, MSM is the short name for the chemical compound methylsulfonylmethane. It is often marketed as a supplement that helps maintain joint health. It is said to help produce two important proteins in our body, namely collagen and glucosamine. These are what help keep our joints and cartilage healthy.
But here we need to understand something very important . MSM is not a medicine that a doctor prescribes. It is only a dietary supplement. This means that it has not been approved by institutions such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a treatment for any medical condition. Therefore, such products may contain other things that are not mentioned on the label. Therefore, before you use any such supplement, it is essential to talk to your doctor about it.
Things you should tell your doctor before taking MSM
If you are considering using MSM, you should inform your doctor if any of the following apply to you.
- If you have an allergy to MSM or any other herbal product, supplement, food, coloring, or preservative.
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant .
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
When you tell your doctor these facts, he or she will be able to give you accurate advice on whether or not to use MSM, and if so, how to do so, according to your health condition.
How should I use this?
It is usually taken orally with a glass of water. Always follow the instructions on the product packaging or as directed by your doctor. Never take more than the recommended dose .
Special care should be taken when giving such supplements to children. Therefore, be sure to talk to a pediatrician before giving MSM to a child.
What do you do if this gets too much for you?
If you think you have taken too much of this by mistake, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
The most important thing is that this medicine or supplement is prescribed for you only. Never share it with others.
Other medications that may interact with MSM
If you are taking medication for other conditions, MSM supplements may interact with those medications. Therefore, it is very important to tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, and herbal products you are taking.
| Drug type | Description and examples |
|---|---|
| Medications that prevent blood clotting or thin the blood | Examples of these include medications such as Warfarin, Enoxaparin, and Apixaban. Taking these with MSM may increase the risk of bleeding. |
| Painkillers (NSAIDs) | Medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen, which are used to treat pain and inflammation, can also interact with MSM. |
| Other herbal supplements | If you are taking other herbal products (e.g. garlic capsules, ginger extract), they may also interact with MSM. |
This list is not complete. If you smoke, drink alcohol, or use other drugs, tell your doctor about them as well, as these things can also interact with the medication you are taking.
Things to consider when using MSM
If your symptoms do not improve, or if they worsen, be sure to see your doctor again.
If you are having any surgery or dental treatment, tell your medical team in advance that you are taking MSM. You may need to stop taking it before the procedure.
Remember, herbal or dietary supplements are not subject to the same stringent quality control as prescription drugs. Their purity and potency can vary from product to product. Therefore, they are not approved for use in the treatment, prevention, or diagnosis of any disease.
Keep in mind that not everything that says "natural" is safe for our bodies.
Always read the product label carefully and follow the instructions. If possible, choose something made by a reputable, trusted company.
What are the possible side effects?
Some people may experience side effects when taking MSM. The table below provides a clear idea of this.
| Possible side effects of MSM | |
|---|---|
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Constipation | Difficulty going to the toilet. |
| Diarrhea | Diarrhea. |
| Upset stomach | Stomach pain, nausea. |
Other side effects not listed in this list may occur, so if you experience any unusual symptoms, seek medical advice.
How do I store this?
Always keep out of reach of children and pets. Store at room temperature, away from moisture, and as directed on the package. Discard after expiration date.
Take-Home Message
- MSM is not a drug prescribed by a doctor, it is a dietary supplement that is not subject to strict quality control.
- Be sure to talk to your doctor before using this, especially if you are taking medication for other conditions, are pregnant, or are a nursing mother.
- Don't assume that just because a product says "natural" it is completely safe.
- If you experience severe allergic symptoms such as swelling of the face and lips, seek medical advice immediately.
- Do not share any supplements prescribed to you or purchased by you with others. Everyone's health is different.
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