MSM Side Effects
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MSM Side Effects - Editor's Choice

| Modified on Feb 04, 2025
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MSM Supplement Side Effects

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a widely used supplement known for its ability to relieve arthritis, reduce pain, and support joint health. However, like any supplement, MSM may cause mild to severe side effects, depending on the dosage, medications taken, and individual health factors.

This article explores MSM side effects and provides tips on how to minimize potential risks.

Common MSM Side Effects

1. Heart Issues

Why It Happens: MSM may impact heart function in some individuals, leading to symptoms such as:

  • Heart palpitations
  • Chest tightness
  • Increased blood pressure

2. Emotional Side Effects

Why It Happens: Some individuals experience mood-related symptoms, such as:

  • Anxiety
  • Mood swings
  • Mild to severe depression

Several users have reported experiencing severe anxiety within 1-2 days of starting MSM.

3. Skin Reactions

Why It Happens: MSM may cause skin sensitivity, leading to:

  • Rashes
  • Dry skin
  • Hives
  • Itching

4. Digestive Issues

Why It Happens: MSM can irritate the digestive system, leading to:

  • Gas and bloating
  • Foul-smelling stools
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Urine retention

Additional Reported Side Effects

  • Headaches
  • Migraines
  • Insomnia
  • Muscle cramps
  • Increased thirst
  • Dehydration
  • Fatigue
  • Exhaustion
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Allergic reactions (itching, swelling, difficulty breathing)
  • Flushing
  • Excessive sweating
  • Kidney problems (rare)

How to Avoid MSM Side Effects

To minimize side effects and maximize MSM’s benefits, follow these guidelines:

  • Start Slowly: Begin with a small dose and gradually increase over time.
  • Use a High-Quality Brand: Choose MSM supplements from a trusted source.
  • Take MSM Early in the Day: Helps prevent sleep disturbances like insomnia.
  • Take MSM With Food: Reduces the risk of digestive discomfort.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support detoxification.

Who Should Avoid MSM?

MSM may not be suitable for everyone. You should consult a healthcare provider before taking MSM if you:

  • Have a history of heart issues or high blood pressure.
  • Experience mood disorders like anxiety or depression.
  • Have a history of allergic reactions to sulfur-containing supplements.
  • Take prescription medications that may interact with MSM.
  • Have nutritional deficiencies (MSM may deplete molybdenum, an essential trace mineral).

MSM and Drug Interactions

MSM may affect how certain medications work, including:

  • Blood thinners: MSM may enhance blood-thinning effects.
  • Blood pressure medications: MSM may interfere with regulation.
  • Anti-inflammatory drugs: MSM may amplify their effects.

Conclusion

While MSM offers significant health benefits, it is important to be aware of potential side effects. Following proper dosing guidelines and consulting a healthcare provider can help minimize risks.

Have you experienced MSM side effects? Share your experience below and read feedback from others who have used MSM!

Have You Used MSM?

Join the discussion! Share your results and learn from others who have experienced MSM side effects or benefits.


The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.

Anxiety

Posted by Kelly (Seattle) on 06/07/2016

Editor's Choice

In response to Cat from Nevada's post in the arthritis section regarding anxiety and heart palpitations from MSM

I began after using the MSM gel for my arthritic knees and thumb. I experienced almost immediately within 2 days better movement and no pain in my knee, hip and thumb. On the 4th day I even walked a mile with my grandchildren which I was unable to do since April of 2014. My allergies were gone, and so was brain fog, I felt fantastic and could move around and be normal but? I began experiencing heart palpitations on day 5 and felt quite uneasy. They continued until I became frightened. I wrestled with feeling fabulous or heart problems as I do not like feeling disabled at 56, but have discontinued the product. This morning my walking is worsened, the pain is coming and my allergies are terrible. So extremely sad. I was taking 1/8 teaspoon once a day and had increased to 1/4 2 times a day. Any ideas?

According to the 'inventor' of MSM, Dr. Stanley Jacobs, MSM is a "cholinesterase inhibitor. Cholinsterase is an enzyme that stops excessive passage of nerve impulses from one nerve cell to another."

https://jacoblab.com/FAQs.pdf

So if this cholinesterase enzyme is INHIBITED by MSM, then one may develop worsening anxiety, muscle twitching, cramping, and yes, heart palpitations, etc., -- all the symptoms of excess choline or acetylcholine.

I found this out the hard way, experiencing worsening leg cramps, muscle twitching and anxiety.

It may help some who have very low levels of choline, but should be avoided by others.