S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe)
“This page provides important general information for pet owners whose animals have been prescribed S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe) in Perth during a consultation by Dr Noor.”
Key Information
Note: This handout is meant to address questions people often ask. It does not include every detail that exists about this product. It also does not replace the medical guidance you receive from your veterinary care team.
Description
- This is a nutritional supplement. It is used to help protect the liver or to help support thinking and brain function.
- Give it on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before your pet eats.
- If you are giving it to a cat, give about 1 teaspoon of water right after each dose. This helps the tablet move down into the stomach.
- Do not break, split, or crush tablets that have a special outer coating.
- Side effects do not happen often. If you are worried about any reaction, contact your veterinarian.
- Liver protectant.
- Comes as coated tablets and as chewable tablets.
- Products that combine SAMe with silymarin (milk thistle) are common.
Other common names
- Denosyl
Uses
Some products say they are for dogs and cats to support the liver or to support thinking and brain function. Many other versions are sold for people.
Before this medication is given
No medication is completely safe for every patient. Talk with your veterinarian about:
- Any other medicines or supplements your pet is using
- Any health problems your pet has now, or has had before
- Any past medication reactions your pet has had
- The possible risks of using this product if your pet is pregnant or nursing
Warnings for animals
- These products are nutritional supplements. Use only the exact product your veterinarian recommends.
- Some animal competitions do not allow certain medications. If your animal competes, check the rules while your animal is taking a medication.
Warnings for humans
After you handle any medication, wash your hands.
How do I give this medication?
Give this product exactly the way your veterinarian directed.
- Give on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before a meal. If you need to, you may hide the tablet in a small amount of food.
- Do not split or crush coated tablets.
- For cats, give about 1 teaspoon of water after each dose to help the tablet reach the stomach.
Side effects
Most pets handle this product well, and unwanted effects are not common. If you have any worries about side effects, contact your veterinarian.
How will I know it’s working?
- This product must be given regularly for several weeks before it reaches its full effect.
- You might notice your pet’s signs slowly improve as it becomes fully effective, or you may not be able to notice any change.
- Your veterinarian will need to do follow-up testing to check how well it is working.
- Contact your veterinary clinic if your pet’s signs get worse or do not get better.
How long will the medication effects last?
After the last dose, it will no longer work within 24 hours.
How long do I give it for?
How long it is used can vary, but it is often given for life. Keep giving it for the length of time your veterinarian instructs.
Overdose
If you see an overdose happen, or you think one may have happened, contact your veterinarian right away or call an animal poison control service (a consultation fee applies):
Have the product container or label available if you can.
Missed dose
In most situations, if you forget a dose:
- Give it as soon as you remember, and then go back to the usual schedule.
- If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one.
- Give the next dose at the normal scheduled time.
- Keep following the regular schedule.
If you are not sure what to do, call your veterinary clinic. Do not give two doses at once and do not give extra doses.
Storage
- Keep it in the original container at room temperature.
- Leave tablets in the blister packaging until you are ready to give them.
- Keep it away from moisture and from high heat.
- Store where children and animals cannot reach it.
- Flavored versions are designed to taste good to animals. Store them securely and well out of reach to help prevent accidental overdose.
Disposal
Do not flush this product in the toilet and do not pour it into a sink. Ways to get rid of unused or expired medication include:
- Drug take-back locations: This is the best option when available. To find a nearby site, contact local law enforcement or your waste management office.
- Home disposal: Mix the medication with coffee grounds or kitty litter, place it in a sealed plastic bag, and put it in the trash.
Do not keep leftover medication for later use and do not give it to anyone else.
Questions about S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe)?
Speak with your veterinarian.
“Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided as general educational material only. Every animal’s health situation is unique, and treatment decisions must be based on a full veterinary assessment. Always follow the specific instructions given during your consultation, and contact the prescribing veterinarian if you have any concerns.”