Indications
DL-Methionine is a form of methionine, an essential amino acid (a protein building block the body cannot make). In Bangladesh it is mostly found in combination products: amino acid and vitamin supplements, liver support preparations, and nutrition injections. In hospitals, methionine has also been used as an antidote after Paracetamol overdose, and it can be used to make urine more acidic.
How It Works
Methionine is used to build proteins and supplies sulphur to the body. The liver uses it to make glutathione, a natural substance that protects liver cells from damage.
Dosage and Administration
In combination products, follow the label or your doctor’s advice. For Paracetamol overdose it is used only in hospital, as prescribed. Injections containing it are given by a doctor or nurse. Children: only as prescribed.
Interactions
It may weaken the effect of Levodopa. Because it can make urine more acidic, it may change how fast some other medicines leave the body. Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take.
Contraindications
Allergy to methionine or any ingredient, severe liver disease (it can bring on confusion in these patients), metabolic acidosis (too much acid in the blood), and some inherited disorders of amino acid processing.
Side Effects
Nausea, vomiting, drowsiness and irritability.
Get urgent medical help for confusion or extreme drowsiness, especially in people with liver disease, or for swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Methionine from normal food is safe. Take supplements during pregnancy or breastfeeding only if your doctor advises them.
Precautions and Warnings
- Use with care in liver or kidney disease.
- Long-term high doses may raise blood homocysteine, which is linked with heart and blood vessel disease; do not take more than advised.
- Check the other ingredients of combination products for anything you cannot take.
Overdose
Too much may cause nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, low blood pressure and confusion. Seek medical help.
Therapeutic Class
Amino acid (nutritional supplement; antidote).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.