As NPR previously reported, the bacteria strain was found in 81 people, four of whom had died from infections, the CDC said in May. A total of 27 eye drop products are included in the voluntary recall by manufacturing company Kilitch Healthcare India Limited. The recalled eye drop products include all lot numbers and expiration dates. The remaining MSM exhibits fairly homogeneous tissue distribution and a biological half-life of approximately 12.2 h in rats [ 63]. Tissue distribution in humans is also likely widespread as it has been detected in cerebrospinal fluid and evenly distributed between the gray and white matter of the brain [ 76, 77, 78, 79, 80]. Moreover, the biological half-life within the brain is an estimated 7.5 h [ 79], while the general half-life is suggested to be greater than 12 h [ 65]. The persisting systemic MSM comprises the bioavailable source. Nakhostin-Roohi B, Barmaki S, Khoshkhahesh F, et al. Effect of chronic supplementation with methylsulfonylmethane on oxidative stress following acute exercise in untrained healthy men. J Pharm Pharmacol. 2011 Oct;63:1290-4. View abstract. Moreover. MSM increases cell permeability, which improves nutrient flow and absorption throughout the eye. This is important for balancing intraocular pressure, removing toxicities from the eye, and repairing damaged membranes.

Some of the suggested supportive supplements for better results with MSM that are reported on EC posts are: The FDA urges consumers who are in possession of the drops to dispose of them by following these instructions. It’s available in powder form most often. You might find it in powdered supplement mixes, such as green powders or digestive aids. MSM powder is believed to be the most absorbable kind. It is pertinent to be mindful of the over-the-counter eye drop recalls. Consult the FDA list of affected drops, or ask your eye care practitioner if your drops are safe to use if you’re unsure,” urges Melissa Barnett, OD, director of optometry at UC Davis in California. “An increased risk of infection and potentially vision loss may occur if contaminated drops are used.”Therefore the dosage you’ll want to take depends on what you’re using MSM for and your current state of health. The recall notice warns consumers that the products being recalled are non-sterile, meaning they may contain bacteria or other germs. 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." These products are intended to be sterile. Ophthalmic drug products pose a potential heightened risk of harm to users because drugs applied to the eyes bypass some of the body’s natural defenses,” said the FDA in their announcement.

During an inspection of manufacturing facilities, the agency’s investigators uncovered “insanitary conditions” and positive bacterial test results in “critical drug production areas.” Usually, 500 milligrams of MSM, taken two to three times daily, is the starting dose recommended for treating osteoarthritis. For example, one study mentioned above gave participants 1,200 milligrams daily for 12 weeks. MSM influences the activation of at least four types of transcription factors: NF-κB, signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT), p53, and nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2). By mediating these transcription factors, MSM can regulate the balance of ROS and antioxidant enzymes. It is important to note that each of these is also, in part, activated by ROS. Together they both seem to safely reduce inflammation and pain intensity without causing side effects for the majority of people. That suggests that MSM — especially when combined with glucosamine and chondroitin — is an excellent natural treatment for arthritis. Gumina S, Passaretti D, Gurzì MD, et al. Arginine L-alpha-ketoglutarate, methylsulfonylmethane, hydrolyzed type I collagen and bromelain in rotator cuff tear repair: a prospective randomized study. Curr Med Res Opin. 2012 Nov;28:1767-74. View abstract.

Redness Relief” eye drops contain vasoconstrictors. Vasoconstrictors decrease the size of the blood vessels on the surface of your eye but do not improve circulation or hydration in the eye. This makes them effective at alleviating symptoms in the short-term but can make dryness worse over time. MSM is a member of the methyl- S-methane compounds within the Earth’s sulfur cycle. Natural synthesis of MSM begins with the uptake of sulfate to produce dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) by algae, phytoplankton, and other marine microorganisms [ 29]. DMSP is either cleaved to form dimethyl sulfide (DMS) or undergoes demethiolation resulting in methanethiol, which can then be converted to DMS [ 30]. Approximately 1%–2% of the DMS produced in the oceans is aerosolized [ 29]. Myriad types of bacteria, when instilled directly into the eyes, have the biological capacity to cause infection,” Adalja told Healthline in an earlier interview. In February, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported an outbreak of Pseudomonas aeruginosa tied to the contamination of other brands of artificial tears and eyedrops. Look for pure powder for best results. Read the directions carefully, and start with about one to two teaspoons of MSM powder taken along with water. You can increase your intake as your body gets used to it, and if you’re not experiencing any digestive side effects.