Medihub - Medical Information - Dietary and nutrition - Supplement- S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine (SAMe)

S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine (SAMe)

Made from an amino acid, methionine, and commonly known as SAMe (pronounced ‘Sammy’), this supplement is showing up positive results in clinical trials for depression and arthritis.

A review in 2002 by the US Department of Health and Human Services found evidence that supports the use of SAMe for depression, arthritis and liver disease. However, it did emphasize the need for more independent research to ascertain its benefits. Other studies have yielded such good results that the US government is funding additional studies into the supplement through the National Institute of Health.

Some doctors may prescribe SAMe as a therapeutic option for patients suffering from these conditions, in line with clinical trials depicting favourable responses. A recent trial comparing SAMe with popular pain-killer, Celebrax, found that it was just as effective in relieving pain from knee arthritis, albeit taking a slower time to achieve the effect.

In patients with depression who were unable to respond to antidepressants, doctors were able to achieve response rates of 40%-50% when they added SAMe to other standard anti-depression medication.

Studies suggest it can help normalize liver function in patients with cirrhosis, hepatitis and cholestasis (blockage of the bile ducts). SAMe has also been found to prevent or reverse liver damage caused by certain drugs

While it does not cause major adverse effects at the usual recommended doses, doctors warn of possible minor side effects such as stomach upset, nausea and in some cases, switch a bipolar patient from a depressed to a manic phase.

SAMe is being marketed to consumers as a dietary supplement for improving mood, relieving arthritic pains and helping in liver disease. However, it is important for patients to remain realistic when trying to treat themselves with any kind of supplements for dosage and formulations are not a clearly defined as traditional pharmaceuticals.

Although it is available over-the-counter, SAMe is not cheap and at the common physician- recommended dose of 400mg for arthritis and up to 1600mg for depression, the costs can add up. Doctors also recommend that as SAMe is absorbed mainly through the intestine, it's best taken in "enteric coated" tablets that pass through the stomach intact. Such tablets are commonly available in blister pack forms.

References:

1. S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine (SAMe) for Depression, Osteoarthritis, and Liver Disease, Structured Abstract. August 2002. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, Rockville, MD. http://www.ahrq.gov/clinic/tp/sametp.htm

2. S-adenosyl methionine (SAMe) versus celecoxib for the treatment of osteoarthritis symptoms: a double-blind cross-over trial. Najm WI et al. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2004 Feb 26;5:6.

3. S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAMe) as an adjunct for resistant major depressive disorder: an open trial following partial or nonresponse to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or venlafaxine. Alpert JE, et al. J Clin Psychopharmacol. 2004 Dec;24(6):661-4.