Introduction to Pharmaceutical-Grade Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO)
Dimethyl sulfoxide (abbreviated as DMSO), chemical name Dimethylsulfoxide, with molecular formula (CH₃)₂SO, is a sulfur-containing organic compound. At room temperature, it appears as a colorless, odorless, transparent liquid. It is a hygroscopic and flammable liquid with high polarity, high boiling point, low toxicity, excellent thermal stability, miscibility with water, and is immiscible with alkanes. DMSO can dissolve a wide range of organic compounds, including water, ethanol, propanol, ether, benzene, and chloroform, earning it the reputation of being a "universal solvent."
Pharmaceutical-grade DMSO is one of the most powerful organic solvents in use. It can dissolve the majority of organic compounds, including carbohydrates, polymers, peptides, as well as many inorganic salts and gases. It can dissolve solutes equivalent to 50–60% of its own weight, whereas most common solvents can only dissolve 10–20%. This exceptional solubility makes it crucial in sample management and high-throughput drug screening.
Pharmaceutical DMSO Uses
- Pharmaceutical-grade DMSO is mainly used as a solvent for pharmaceutical synthesis and intermediate reactions, as well as a drug carrier. Using this solvent can increase reaction rates and improve reactant yields.
- DMSO is widely employed as a solvent and reaction reagent, especially in acrylonitrile polymerization reactions, where it serves as a processing solvent and spinning solvent.
- It is also used in polyurethane synthesis and spinning, as well as a solvent for the synthesis of polyamides, polyimides, and polysulfone resins. Additionally, DMSO functions as a solvent for aromatic compounds, butadiene extraction, and the synthesis of chlorofluorobenzene amines.
Click here to get the latest global Dimethyl sulfoxide CAS 67-68-5 market prices for 2026.
