s-adenosylmethionine Health Article

Generic name(s):

s-adenosylmethionine

Brand name(s):

What is the most important information I should know about s-adenosylmethionine?

S-adenosylmethionine has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or purity. All potential risks and/or advantages of s-adenosylmethionine may not be known. Additionally, there are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for these compounds. There have been instances where herbal/health supplements have been sold which were contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.

Talk to your doctor before taking s-adenosylmethionine if you are taking anti-depressant medications. Do not stop or adjust your dose of anti-depressant medication without first talking to your doctor.

What is s-adenosylmethionine?

S-adenosylmethionine is a naturally occurring chemical in the body.

S-adenosylmethionine has been used for depression, osteoarthritis, joint health and liver problems.

S-adenosylmethionine has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or purity. All potential risks and/or advantages of s-adenosylmethionine may not be known. Additionally, there are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for these compounds. There have been instances where herbal/health supplements have been sold which were contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.

S-adenosylmethionine may also have uses other than those listed in this medication guide.

The use of s-adenosylmethionine in cultural and traditional settings may differ from concepts accepted by current Western medicine. When considering the use of herbal/health supplements, consultation with a primary health care professional is advisable. Additionally, consultation with a practitioner trained in the uses of herbal/health supplements may be beneficial, and coordination of treatment among all health care providers involved may be advantageous.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking s-adenosylmethionine?

Before taking s-adenosylmethionine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care professional if you have any other medical conditions, allergies, or if you take other medicines or other herbal/health supplements. S-adenosylmethionine may not be recommended in some situations.

Talk to your doctor before taking s-adenosylmethionine if you are taking anti-depressant medications. Do not stop or adjust your dose of anti-depressant medication without first talking to your doctor.

Do not take s-adenosylmethionine without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant. Do not take s-adenosylmethionine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. There is no information available regarding the use of s-adenosylmethionine by children. Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without first talking to the child's doctor.

How should I take s-adenosylmethionine?

If you choose to take s-adenosylmethionine, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

Do not use different formulations (e.g., tablets and powder) of s-adenosylmethionine at the same time, unless specifically directed to do so by a health care professional.

Store s-adenosylmethionine as directed on the package. In general, s-adenosylmethionine should be protected from light and moisture and stored in a sealed container.

What happens if I miss a dose?

No information is available regarding a missed dose of s-adenosylmethionine. Consult your doctor, pharmacist, or health care professional if you require further information.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

Symptoms of a s-adenosylmethionine overdose are not known.

What should I avoid while taking s-adenosylmethionine?

There are no known restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while taking s-adenosylmethionine, unless otherwise directed by your health care professional.