I started with 2000 mg/day and now have slowly increased to 6000 mg. All it has done so far is make my rashes and small bumps on knuckles turn lighter and lighter pink instead of red. Many people have said MSM gives them energy. I haven't felt more energetic with MSM. I am still trying to find the right amount to take though. For healthy people, they recommend 2000 - 6000 mg/day.

I had 2 big patches, the size of regular pancakes, on my back. They were DM rashes (confirmed by biopsy). At first, I used Ultravate ointment (prescribed by my dermy) to get rid of the redness and itching. I stopped the ointment as soon as the itching became bearable and started my MSM (2000 mg then). So far, I haven't had the need to use the Ultravate although I am supposed to continue the application until my next appt, which is at the end of May. Ultravate is a steroid ointment.

MSM may or may not help you. If it does, you will see improvement within 6 months to a year. The thing is you need to find the right amount to take daily for your condition and body, and patience, of course, as in any other alternative medicines or health foods.

I recommend that you read the book by Dr. Stanley Jacob (the inventor) on MSM before you start using. I bought the book after I started using MSM. It costs around US$10-$12. A lot of helpful info in it such as: what to expect, who have taken it and what for, how and in what form to take it, side effects, success rate, etc.. All in all, MSM history goes back to 20 years ago. That is the longest MSM has been used.

As far as DMSO, you can buy from the shelves here, too, I think but am not sure. However, because it is a parent compound of MSM (meaning that it is more potent in nature), I would recommend that you call Dr. Jacob's clinic in Oregon before you start taking it. Or, at least, consult with others who have used it for a while. Dr. Jacob is retiring. So, he will not be accepting new or seeing any more patients. However, he answers phone calls. DMSO, RMSO-50, is currently approved by the FDA for the treatment of Interstitial Cystitis, a bladder condition.

Dr. Jacob told us that, to start treatment with DMSO, I need my PCP to call him at the beginning of May. I guess he needs a doctor to monitor my health condition while I am under his treatment. So, I am in the process of getting my PCP to do just that. Hope he is willing.

I hope my info helps although it doesn't seem much. I am still giving MSM a try myself :-) The best way to get more info is to find others who have used MSM with and without success. That way you get better understanding and clearer picture on the substance. I haven't posted anywhere to ask about MSM stories. I know I should, but I have been burrying myself with the study of thyroid and its function. Mine has been acting up a bit :-(

Take care and have a good day!

- Mei