Dimethylsulfoxide (dmso) - Rogaine (Minoxidil) Interaction
Herbal: Dimethylsulfoxide (dmso)
Also Known As: Dimethyl Sulfoxide, Dimethyl Sulphoxide, Dimethylis Sulfoxidum
Drug: Minoxidil
Brand names:
Loniten, Rogaine, Minoxidil
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 25, 2025
Interaction Details
Minoxidil is classified as belonging to the following category: Topical Drugs
Topical DMSO might increase the effects and adverse effects of topical drugs.
Evidence from animal studies and limited human studies suggests that DMSO may potentiate the action of numerous topical medications by increasing their absorption through the skin. This increase in absorption seems to depend on the concentration of DMSO and the molecular weight of the medication.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
PossibleInteraction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
References
- Jacob SW, Herschler R. Pharmacology of DMSO. Cryobiology 1986;23:14-27.
- Capriotti K, Capriotti JA. Dimethyl sulfoxide: history, chemistry, and clinical utility in dermatology. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2012;5(9):24-6.
- DOMOSO SOLUTION (90% Dimethyl Sulfoxide). Fort Dodge Animal Health, Fort Dodge, Iowa. Avaliable at: https://www.zoetisus.com/_locale-assets/mcm-portal-assets/products/pdf/domoso_solution_pi.pdf. Accessed 8/3/2020.
Dimethylsulfoxide (dmso) Overview
Dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) is a colorless, odorless liquid that has a number of industrial and medical uses.
In a medicinal sense, DMSO is most commonly used as a topical pain reliever and anti-inflammatory agent. It is applied to the skin as a cream or gel, and is sometimes used to treat conditions such as muscle strains, sprains, and arthritis. DMSO is also an FDA-approved treatment for interstitial cystitis, a condition that causes bladder pain and frequent urination, when given via intravesical instillation (administration directly into the bladder).
DMSO is often added to topical preparations to increase the skin penetration of some medications.
Minoxidil Overview
-
Minoxidil is used with other medications to treat high blood pressure. It is in a class of medications called vasodilators. It works by relaxing the blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily through the body.
-
High blood pressure is a common condition and when not treated, can cause damage to the brain, heart, blood vessels, kidneys and other parts of the body. Damage to these organs may cause heart disease, a heart attack, heart failure, stroke, kidney failure, loss of vision, and other problems. In addition to taking medication, making lifestyle changes will also help to control your blood pressure. These changes include eating a diet that is low in fat and salt, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising at least 30 minutes most days, not smoking, and using alcohol in moderation.
Dimethylsulfoxide (dmso) - More Interactions
Dimethylsulfoxide (dmso) interacts with 326 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
Return to the main supplement interaction checker page
Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
Ask A Pharmacist About Your Herbal Questions!
Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
Ask A Pharmacist