Methionine
Mechanism :
Methionine is an essential nonpolar amino acid, and a lipotropic. Methionine plays a role in cysteine, carnitine and taurine synthesis by the transsulfuration pathway, lecithin production, the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine and other phospholipids. Improper conversion of methionine can lead to atherosclerosis. Methionine is a chelating agent.
Indication :
Contraindications :
Contraindicated in patients with acidosis and in patients with severe liver disease. May aggravate metabolic acidosis and may precipitate acute reactions in schizophrenic patients.
Dosing :
Oral
<6 years:
1 gm every 4 hours. Max: 4 gm/day.
>6 years:
2.5 gm every 4 hours. Max: 10 gm/day.
Should be started within 8 hours of overdosage. Not effective if given after activated charcoal.
Adverse Effect :
Side effects like increased drowsiness and symptoms of irritability may occur. Nausea and vomiting can also occur. Large doses can precipitate encephalopathy in patients of hepatic cirrhosis with portal hypertension, and also cause other neurological symptoms.
Acute exacerbation of symptoms can occur in schizophrenics.
Interaction :
Levodopa: The effects of it can be reduced by methionine.
Hepatic Dose :
No dosage adjustments are recommended.