More research is needed to confirm SAMe’s health benefits.
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
Uses of SAMe
As with many natural products, people use supplements like SAMe for various reasons.

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Several studies have assessed SAMe for the following potential uses.
However, no supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
Osteoarthritis
Research results are mixed on SAMe for knee or hip osteoarthritis (OA).
What Are the Side Effects of SAMe?
As with many medications and natural products, side effects are possible with SAMe.
For example, you may experiencenauseaandstomach upset.Skin rash is another possible side effect.
Severe Side Effects
The NCCIH referred to a study about SAMe in people with alcohol-related liver disease.
In this clinical trial, study participants took SAMe for two years with no reports of severe side effects.
If you take SAMe, follow your healthcare provider’s suggestions and product label instructions.
What Happens If I Take Too Much SAMe?
There is little information about SAMe toxicity and overdoses in humans.
give a shot to store your medicines in a cool and dry place.
Discard after one year or as indicated on the packaging.
Avoid putting unused and expired drugs down the drain or in the toilet.
Visit the FDA website to know where and how to discard all unused and expired medications.
Omega-3 supplements tend to have mild side effects.
Common side effects are also likely related to the digestive system.
For example, you might experience nausea,diarrhea, orheartburn.
Some people may experienceheadaches, taste changes, and foul-smelling breath or sweat.
And omega-3 might interact with blood thinners, such asJantoven (warfarin), for drug interactions.
Don’t take omega-3 with SAMe until you first talk with your healthcare provider.
Doing so can help prevent possible interactions and side effects.
Your provider can also ensure you’re giving these supplements a good trial at appropriate doses.
Sources of SAMe & What to Look For
There are several different sources of SAMe.
There may also be vegan and vegetarian options.
Summary
SAMe may have potential uses for osteoarthritis, depression, and liver conditions.
Side effects are generally rare.
But similar to many medications and natural products, side effects and medication interactions are still possible.
Before taking SAMe, contact your pharmacist or healthcare provider to help you safely achieve your health goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
SAMe is available in many dosage formswith tablets likely being the most common.
Some SAMe products are manufacturered in the United States.
They can also ensure youre giving SAMe a fair trial at appropriate doses.
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