What is S-adenosyl-methionine?
S-adenosyl-methionine, also known as SAMe (brand names: Denosyl®, Novifit®, Zentonil®, Donamet®, Gumbaral®, Isimet®, MoodlLift®, S Amet®, Samyr®, Transmetil®, Tunik®), is the bioactive form of methionine, an essential amino acid nutrient found abundantly in foods, especially in meat and sunflower seeds.
SAMe is used in the body in many important ways, such as brain, heart, hormone, antioxidant, detoxifying, and other metabolic functions. It is a commonly used supplement to treat liver disease in pets, especially cats and dogs.
SAMe has been used to treat liver disease, osteoarthritis, age-related behavior changes, and other cognitive and nerve disorders in mammals. In humans, it has been used for depression, autism, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, peripheral neuropathy, spinal cord degeneration, inflammation, pain, osteoarthritis, sleeping problems, and liver disease.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not review non-drug health products (e.g., herbals, nutraceuticals, shampoos, and other supplements) for safety or effectiveness before they are sold to the public. Manufacturers of non-drug health products must ensure their products are safe and labeled accurately.
The FDA requires that these non-pharmaceuticals contain a disclaimer that says, “This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.” Health Canada licenses “veterinary health products” after reviewing safety, efficacy, and manufacturing information provided by the manufacturer. These products are not tested by Health Canada.
Your veterinarian is the best source of information about the safety of non-drug health products in pets. Just because a product is natural does not mean it is safe. All medicines and medicinal plants are potentially toxic if used inappropriately or given at high doses. Supplements can also have side effects, like pharmaceuticals. Few supplements and herbs have been subjected to rigorous scientific trials to determine their efficacy.
Although the information in this handout may be helpful, it also may be incomplete and may not represent the full range of effects the supplement could have on your pet.
How is SAMe given?
- SAMe comes in tablet or compounded liquid forms; all are given orally (by mouth). Do not crush or split tablets.
- Give on an empty stomach, 1 to 2 hours before a meal. If vomiting occurs, give future doses with a small amount of food. Contact your veterinarian if vomiting continues.
- Follow your veterinarian’s instructions on administering this supplement and give for the entire time prescribed by your veterinarian, even if your pet is feeling better.
It can take a few weeks before the full effects of this supplement are noted, but gradual improvements are usually noticeable after a few days.
What if I miss giving my pet the supplement?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once or give extra doses.
Are there any potential side effects?
SAMe may cause the following side effects:
- Vomiting, nausea
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Sleepiness
- Dizziness
Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving SAMe and contact your veterinarian immediately:
- An allergic reaction such as irregular breathing, rash, fever, puffiness and swelling around the face
Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment. Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This short-acting supplement should stop working within 24 hours, although effects may last longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.
Are there any risk factors for this supplement?
DO NOT USE SAMe in:
- Pets that are allergic to any component
USE WITH CAUTION in:
- Pets that are pregnant or nursing
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
Several medications should be used with caution when given with SAMe:
- Antidepressants such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCIs) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Dextromethorphan
- Meperidine
- Pentazocine
- Tramadol
Vitamins, herbal therapies, and supplements have the potential to interact with each other, as well as with prescription and over the counter medications. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including all vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.
Is any monitoring needed with this supplement?
- Your veterinarian may monitor liver enzymes, bilirubin, and bile acids to be sure the supplement is working. They will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet.
- Monitor your pet at home for improvements in clinical signs and monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any side effects occur, discontinue the supplement, and contact your veterinarian.
How do I store SAMe?
- Store the supplement according to the manufacturer’s directions.
- Protect from light, moisture, and heat.
- Keep the container out of reach of children and pets.
What should I do in case of emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the supplement, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms. Report any adverse effects to the FDA or Health Canada.
