What is SAMe + Silybin?
SAMe or S-adenosyl-methionine + Silybin (brand name: Denamarin®) is a combination supplement commonly used to support liver health in cats and dogs. SAMe is the bioactive form of methionine, an essential amino acid nutrient that is found abundantly in foods, especially in meat and sunflower seeds.
SAMe is used in the body for many important functions, such as brain, heart, hormone, antioxidant, detoxifying, and other metabolic functions. Silybin is an active component of milk thistle extract that has antioxidant effects and helps protect and support liver function.
The combination of SAMe and Silybin is used to support liver and brain health.
What is a supplement?
Dietary supplements add to or supplement the diet and can include vitamins, minerals, amino acids, herbs, botanicals, enzymes, and probiotics. Many supplements are sold over the counter, yet they contain ingredients that have biological effects that should be managed by your veterinarian. Follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions very carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.
There are differences in how countries regulate supplements. In the United States, these substances are not regulated by the FDA as vigorously as other medications, which means they can be sold without the manufacturer proving their effectiveness or safety, and without a guarantee of consistent or accurately reported ingredients. In Canada, products that have been evaluated for quality, safety, and effectiveness by Health Canada and authorized for sale will have a license number on the label.
How effective is SAMe + Silybin?
Limited studies have been performed in animals, but there is anecdotal evidence that SAMe and Silybin work to treat liver disease and support liver health during one type of chemotherapy treatment.
How is SAMe + Silybin given?
- SAMe + Silybin is given by mouth in the form of a tablet or chewable tablet.
- Give on an empty stomach, at least an hour before feeding or two hours after feeding.
- In cats, administer 3-6 mL of water after the tablet to improve passage to the stomach. If pilling isn’t possible, the tablet can be mixed with a small amount of food.
- If vomiting occurs when dosed on an empty stomach, give future doses with a small amount of food.
- Do not remove the tablets from the blister pack until ready to use.
- Do not crush or split the tablets.
This medication can take up to a few weeks before full effects are noted, but gradual improvements are usually noticeable after a few days.
What if I miss giving my pet the supplement?
If you miss a dose, skip the dose you missed, give it at the next scheduled time, and return to the regular dosing schedule. Never give your pet two doses at once or give extra doses.
Are there any potential side effects?
Side effects are rare, but if any of the following signs develop, stop giving SAMe + Silybin and contact your veterinarian immediately:
- Reduced appetite
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- In humans, side effects also include constipation, dry mouth, sleeplessness, headache, sweating, and dizziness.
This supplement should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.
Are there any risk factors for this supplement?
Studies are limited for this supplement and therefore information regarding risk factors is also limited. Use cautiously in pets that are pregnant or in nursing mothers as safety has not been established.
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
This supplement may alter the effect of certain medications. It is important to tell your veterinarian about any medications that your pet is taking (including all vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies).
Is any monitoring needed with this supplement?
- Periodic blood monitoring is required; your veterinarian will recommend the frequency.
- Your veterinarian may recommend recheck examinations to assess the effect of the supplement.
- At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any side effects occur, discontinue the medication, and contact your veterinarian.
How do I store SAMe + Silybin?
- Unless otherwise directed on the label, store the tablets at room temperature in a dry place (such as a moisture-resistant container).
- Protect from heat.
- If the medication comes in a blister pack, ensure the blister pack stays sealed until the dose is needed. If the medication comes in a bottle, ensure the cap is closed tightly and store away from pets.
What should I do in case of emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility.
