AdoMet (S-Adenosylmethionine, SAMe)

Evidence Level
Moderate
1 Clinical Trial
3 Documented Benefits
3/5 Evidence Score

AdoMet is S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), a compound the body makes naturally from the amino acid methionine. SAMe is a universal methyl donor involved in joint, mood, and liver health, and supplemental SAMe is studied for supporting joint comfort, a positive mood, and liver function.

Studied Dose Commonly 600 to 1200 mg per day, in divided doses.
Active Compound S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), typically as a stabilized tosylate or butanedisulfonate salt.

Benefits

Joint comfort

A Cochrane review of randomized trials found SAMe may improve pain and function in osteoarthritis of the knee or hip, supporting its joint-comfort use.

Mood support

As a methyl donor for neurotransmitter synthesis, SAMe is studied for supporting a healthy, positive mood.

Liver support

SAMe plays a central role in liver detoxification pathways and is studied for supporting liver function.

Mechanism of action

1

Methyl donation

SAMe donates methyl groups used to make neurotransmitters, phospholipids, and other molecules, central to mood and cell signaling.

2

Cartilage and glutathione support

SAMe supports cartilage proteoglycan synthesis and the production of glutathione, important for joints and liver protection.

Clinical trials

1
SAMe for Osteoarthritis — Cochrane Review
PubMed

Cochrane systematic review of S-adenosylmethionine for osteoarthritis of the knee or hip. (Rutjes et al. 2009, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews)

Adults with knee or hip osteoarthritis.

SAMe may improve joint pain and function, though high-quality evidence was limited; results support its joint-comfort positioning.

Side effects and drug interactions

Common Potential side effects

GENERALLY WELL-TOLERATED — digestive symptoms are most common.
Nausea, dry mouth, or restlessness can occur, especially at higher doses.
Take earlier in the day if it feels activating.

Important Drug interactions

Antidepressants (especially SSRIs/MAOIs) — risk of serotonin excess; consult a doctor.
Bipolar disorder — SAMe may trigger mania; avoid unless supervised.
Tell your doctor about all medications before use.

Frequently asked questions about AdoMet (S-Adenosylmethionine, SAMe)

What is AdoMet (S-Adenosylmethionine, SAMe)?

AdoMet is S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), a compound the body makes naturally from the amino acid methionine. SAMe is a universal methyl donor involved in joint, mood, and liver health, and supplemental SAMe is studied for supporting joint comfort, a positive mood, and liver function.

What is the recommended dosage of AdoMet (S-Adenosylmethionine, SAMe)?

The clinically studied dose for AdoMet (S-Adenosylmethionine, SAMe) is Commonly 600 to 1200 mg per day, in divided doses.. Always follow product labeling and consult a healthcare provider for personalized dosing recommendations.

What is AdoMet (S-Adenosylmethionine, SAMe) used for?

AdoMet (S-Adenosylmethionine, SAMe) is studied for joint comfort, mood support, liver support. A Cochrane review of randomized trials found SAMe may improve pain and function in osteoarthritis of the knee or hip, supporting its joint-comfort use.

Are there side effects from taking AdoMet (S-Adenosylmethionine, SAMe)?

Reported potential side effects may include: GENERALLY WELL-TOLERATED — digestive symptoms are most common. Nausea, dry mouth, or restlessness can occur, especially at higher doses. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have underlying conditions or take medications.

Is AdoMet (S-Adenosylmethionine, SAMe) safe to take?

Whether AdoMet (S-Adenosylmethionine, SAMe) is safe depends on the dose, your overall health, and any medications you take. At studied doses, reported side effects can include: GENERALLY WELL-TOLERATED — digestive symptoms are most common. It may also interact with certain medications. AdoMet (S-Adenosylmethionine, SAMe) is not suitable for everyone — consult a healthcare provider before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a medical condition, or take prescription medications.

References(1 citations)

Evidence ratings on NutraSmarts are based on the totality of human clinical research, with emphasis on randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews. The references below directly support claims made throughout this page.

  1. Rutjes AW, Nüesch E, Reichenbach S, et al. S-Adenosylmethionine for osteoarthritis of the knee or hip. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2009;2009(4):CD007321..PubMedUsed to support: Cochrane review supporting joint benefit of SAMe.