Ocular Toxicity of Experimental Intravitreal DMSO

Abstract
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a universal solvent which may be a suitable solvent for intraocular drugs. In this experimental study, the toxic effect of intravitreal DMSO in rabbits is examined. Single and multiple intravitreal injections of 1%, 10%, 50%, and 100% DMSO were made. Single injections produced no long-term toxic effect. Toxic effects were seen in the lens with cataract formation when injected with multiple doses of DMSO. Transient retinal toxicity was seen 1 hr after injection of DMSO, but cleared completely in 1 month.