Is SAM-e safe to take?

  • Q: Is SAM-e safe to take, or does it contain toxins?
  • A: S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) is a naturally occurring compound found in almost every tissue and fluid in the body, and it's involved in many important processes. SAMe plays a role in the immune system, maintains cell membranes, and helps produce and break down brain chemicals such as serotonin, melatonin, and dopamine. Because of the potential for side effects and interactions with medications, however, you should take dietary supplements such as SAMe only under the supervision of a knowledgeable health care provider. Side effects may include dry mouth, nausea, gas, diarrhea, headache, anxiety, a feeling of elation, restlessness, and insomnia. For this reason, you should not take SAMe at night. Large doses of SAMe may cause mania (abnormally elevated mood). Start at a low dose and gradually increase it; do not exceed recommended doses. If you're taking any of the following medications, you should not use SAMe without your doctor's knowledge: antidepressants, levodopa, diabetes medications, dextromethorphan (the DM in cough products), Talwin, or Demerol. Before you take any type of supplement, be sure to discuss it with your physician. Lori Poulin, PharmD
This question was answered on November 02, 2010.


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