SAMe is not given as a preventative supplement. If you are healthy, you do not need to take SAMe. The proper dosage amounts of SAMe depends upon the complication.
Depression – 1,600 mg per day
Osteoarthritis – 800 to 1,200 mg per day
Fibromyalgia – 800 mg per day
Liver disorders – 1,200 mg per day
Migraines – 800 mg per day
SAMe supplements can be taken either with or without food and should be taken with a full glass of water at a consistent time of the day each day. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible, though not if it is almost time for the next dose as you should not double your dose or take an extra.
Researchers have found SAMe to have a significantly smaller amount of side effects when compared to other antidepressant medications. SAMe tends to be very well tolerated in comparison. A mild side effect includes occasional gastrointestinal upset.
It is important to note that those with bipolar disorder, when taking SAMe have been reported by their health care practitioners to switch from depression to a manic episode.