Dimethylglycine

What is dimethylglycine?

Dimethylglycine (DMG) is a supplement often used in veterinary medicine to support immune health, athletic performance, and muscle and joint health. It is used in dogs, cats, horses, and chickens.

DMG is an essential amino acid that is a building block for protein, and it must be consumed in the diet. Various over-the-counter products containing DMG are available as veterinary supplements.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not review non-drug health supplements (e.g., herbals, nutraceuticals, shampoos, and other supplements) for safety or effectiveness before they are sold to the public. Manufacturers of non-drug health supplements must ensure their supplements are safe and labeled accurately. The FDA requires that these non-pharmaceuticals contain a disclaimer that says, “This supplement is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.” Health Canada licenses “veterinary health supplements” after reviewing safety, efficacy, and manufacturing information provided by the manufacturer. These supplements are not tested by Health Canada.

Your veterinarian is the best source of information about the safety of non-drug health supplements in pets. Just because a supplement is natural does not mean it is safe. All medicines and medicinal plants are potentially toxic if used inappropriately or given at high doses. Supplements can also have side effects, like pharmaceuticals. Few supplements and herbs have been subjected to rigorous scientific trials to determine their efficacy.

Although the information in this handout may be helpful, it also may be incomplete and may not represent the full range of effects the supplement could have on your pet.

How do I give my pet DMG?

• DMG is given orally (by mouth) and comes in the form of a powder, capsule, oral liquid, and tablet.
• Oral doses may be given with or without food.
• If vomiting occurs when given on an empty stomach, give future doses with a small meal or treat.
• Follow your veterinarian’s directions and use supplements according to their label.
• Measure liquid forms carefully.
• Ideally, give this supplement at the same time daily.
• Ensure access to fresh, clean drinking water.
• If you have difficulty getting your pet to take the supplement, ask your veterinarian or pharmacist for tips to reduce the stress of medication time for both you and your pet.
• Wash your hands after handling.
• Do not handle if you have a known sensitivity to this supplement.

DMG may take several days to take effect, and improvements are not always outwardly noticeable.

What if I miss giving my pet the supplement?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects?

• There are no documented side effects from DMG; however, studies are limited, so information about side effects is also limited.
• Sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.
• Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately.

This short-acting drug/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?

DO NOT USE DMG in:

• Pets that are allergic to it or to any of the ingredients in the supplement

USE WITH CAUTION in:

• Pets with liver disease
• Pets with bleeding disorders
• Pets with lung disease

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

There are no documented drug interactions for this supplement. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, and herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this supplement?

• At home, monitor for any abnormal changes. If any occur, discontinue the supplement and contact your veterinarian.
• Your veterinarian will let you know when they want to reassess your pet to ensure the supplement is working and not causing side effects.

How do I store DMG?

• Ensure oral supplements are stored in a cool, dry area in tightly sealed containers to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Keep out of the reach of children and 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.
• Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet’s weight and symptoms.
• Report any adverse effects to the FDA or Health Canada.