This is an older 1977 paper:
Abstract
The anti-inflammatory properties of topical ocular dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) were investigated using a standard experimental model of an acute inflammatory ocular inflammation. Ninety percent and 100% DMSO aggravated the inflammatory response, 50% to 70% DMSO had similar responses as the control eye; however, 30% DMSO had definite anti-inflammatory properties.
Dexamethasone 0.1% was superior to 30% DMSO as an anti-inflammatory agent.
NOTE: Dexamethasone, corticosteroid, has many more side effects than DMSO. Dexamethasone side effects include vision changes, acne, rapid weight gain, and more.
From this study it is evident that high concentrations of DMSO are irritating to the inflammatory ocular model used while lower concentrations have anti-inflammatory properties. The two side effects of skin irritation at the site of application and breath odor may be the subjective influence that leads certain patients to report a beneficial effect of DMSO treatment in ocular inflammation.
- Effects of dimethyl sulfoxide on ocular inflammation - PubMed
- Ann Ophthalmol
- 1977 Jan;9(1):61-5.
- PMID: 319730
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/319730/
- full text is apparently not available