Question: Is it OK to use DMSO to treat herpes?


DMSO has no role in treating herpes. Dimethyl sulfoxide, or DMSO as it is usually referred to, has had a checkered past. It has no demonstrable anti-viral activity. Herpes — which comes in the form of genital herpes and in the more mild form of oral herpes — is a virus.

With the availability of numerous effective oral and topical agents for treating herpes infections, I encourage you to see your personal physician for a prescription of oral (such as acyclovir, famcyclovir, or valacyclovir) and topical therapy (such as 5 percent acyclovir or 1 percent penciclovir) for your condition.

Herpes infections are very common and effective treatment is available without resorting to non-FDA approved treatments.