SAM-e Information

SAM-e and Depression

SAM-e Pros and Cons

SAM-e Information

SAM-e is the popular name for S-adenosylmethionine, a substance that our bodies produce naturally by combining the essential amino acid methionine, with adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the major source of cellular energy.

SAM-e is found in all human cells and is a methyl donor involved in the making of dozens of important compounds in the body. For example, SAMe plays a role in cell maintenance and nerve function. It is also involved in the making of genetic material, known as DNA, and cartilage as well as being instrumental in the detoxification of drugs and harmful compounds. In addition, it helps produce and break down brain chemicals such as serotonin, melatonin, and dopamine.

Some experts point out that levels of SAMe tend to decline with age. Moreover, it is important to note that both folic acid and vitamin B12 are required for the synthesis of SAM-e, as well as methionine.

As a supplement, SAM-e is worthy of attention. It is used in connection with a variety of conditions including osteoarthritis, depression, fibromyalgia, and liver disease.

This web-page will cover its role in depression along with SAM-e pros and cons.

For SAM-e information and Osteoarthritis, please click here. SAMe and Osteoarthritis

SAM-e Information - Depression

Is SAM-e Effective for Depression?

SAM-e Pros and Cons …….. Depression

SAM-e does come with both pros and cons, therefore, will start with the pros and end with the cons.

Is Sam-e an effective supplement for depression? It appears to be an effective natural anti-depressant based on a number of clinical studies.

In fact, both Italy and Russia use it to treat depression. Moreover, in Italy, SAM-e outsells Prozac even though insurance companies only cover Prozac.

Keep in mind that in many European countries, SAM-e is a prescription medication, however, in the United States it's available as a nonprescription nutritional supplement.

SAM-e Information - Depression

How does it work?

SAM-e appears to boost levels of important brain compounds such as serotonin, dopamine, and phosphatidylserine. In addition, SAM-e enhances serotonin and dopamine as it facilitates their binding to the proper receptor sites in the brain. Serotonin and dopamine are two very important compounds that are responsible for controlling mood.

SAM-e Information Depression

Is there any evidence of efficacy?

Indeed, there are numerous studies in regards to SAM-e and depression showing positive results. According to the well renowned tome the "Nutraceuticals The Complete Encyclopedia of Supplements, Herbs, Vitamins, and Healing Foods" by editors Arthur J. Roberts, MD., Mary E. O’Brien, M.D., and Genell Subak-Sharpe, M.S. who states:

"A large analysis of several studies looking at its effectiveness in treating depression, including more than one thousand patients, showed that those receiving SAM-e experienced 17 to 38 percent more improvements than those taking a placebo. The improvement was comparable to, and in some cases exceeded what is expected from some prescription anti-depressants. SAM-e is also faster-acting than many prescription anti-depressants." (page 346)

SAM-e Information - Depression

What are the cons of using SAM-e?

Before we move on to the cons of SAM-e, we have one last noteworthy comment about the pros. SAM-e is considered to be very safe and researchers suggest that many people may benefit from this supplement. Now, with that being said, let's move on to SAM-e cons.