Overview
Superoxide dismutase helps break down potentially harmful oxygen molecules in cells. This might prevent damage to tissues. Some superoxide dismutase products are made from cows. Others are made from melons or created in a lab.
People use superoxide dismutase for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), heart attack, pneumonia, stress, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses.
Uses & Effectiveness
Possibly Effective for
- Osteoarthritis. Injecting superoxide dismutase into the joint might help reduce pain in people with osteoarthritis. Injections can only be given by a healthcare provider.
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Injecting superoxide dismutase into the joint might help reduce pain and stiffness in people with RA. Injections can only be given by a healthcare provider.
Likely InEffective for
- Heart attack. Giving superoxide dismutase by IV doesn't seem to help to reduce heart damage after a heart attack. IV products can only be given by a healthcare provider.
Side Effects
When applied to the skin: There isn't enough reliable information to know if superoxide dismutase is safe or what the side effects might be.
When applied into the eye: There isn't enough reliable information to know if superoxide dismutase is safe or what the side effects might be.
Some superoxide dismutase products come from animal sources, so there is some concern that products made from sick or diseased animals could cause health issues. But there have been no reports of people getting sick after using superoxide dismutase products taken from animals.
Special Precautions and Warnings
When applied to the skin: There isn't enough reliable information to know if superoxide dismutase is safe or what the side effects might be.
When applied into the eye: There isn't enough reliable information to know if superoxide dismutase is safe or what the side effects might be.
Some superoxide dismutase products come from animal sources, so there is some concern that products made from sick or diseased animals could cause health issues. But there have been no reports of people getting sick after using superoxide dismutase products taken from animals.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if superoxide dismutase is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Children: There isn't enough reliable information to know if is safe or what the side effects might be.
Interactions
We currently have no information for SUPEROXIDE DISMUTASE (SOD) overview.
Dosing
CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.
This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.