Abstract: In one embodiment of the invention, a pharmaceutical composition for intranasal administration comprises insulin, dimethyl sulfoxide and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable excipient. In another embodiment of the invention, a pharmaceutical composition for intranasal administration comprises clioquinol, dimethyl sulfoxide and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable excipient. In yet another embodiment of the invention, a pharmaceutical composition for intranasal administration comprises insulin, clioquinol, dimethyl sulfoxide and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable excipient. The pharmaceutical compositions of the invention may be used to treat or prevent a neurodegenerative disorder such as Alzheimer's disease, stroke, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, and/or traumatic brain injuries and the like, in addition to other systemic and local diseases.