SAM-e is a dietary supplement often used for treating arthritis, depression, and intrahepatic cholestasis. This eMedTV resource explores the other benefits of SAM-e, explains how to take the supplement safely, and lists possible side effects.
There is reliable evidence that SAM-e is beneficial for depression, arthritis, and intrahepatic cholestasis. This eMedTV segment further discusses the benefits of SAM-e and explains how the supplement works to treat these various conditions.
There are many SAM-e safety warnings and precautions to be aware of before starting treatment. As this eMedTV segment explains, you should talk to your doctor before using SAM-e if you have bipolar disorder, Parkinson's disease, or any allergies.
Common SAM-e side effects may include dizziness, gas, and headaches. This page from the eMedTV site lists other common side effects, as well as rare but potentially serious side effects that require medical attention (such as anxiety or hostility).
Many people wonder, "Does SAM-e work?" As this eMedTV article explains, the supplement has actually been studied for quite a few uses. For example, there is evidence suggesting that SAM-e works for depression, arthritis, and intrahepatic cholestasis.
At this time, there is no standard recommended SAM-e dosage. As this part of the eMedTV Web site explains, the SAM-e dosing information that is currently available is from practical experience with the supplement and findings from clinical studies.
Medications that may cause SAM-e drug interactions include triptans, antidepressants, and MAOIs. As this eMedTV Web page explains, these interactions may cause serotonin syndrome, a group of dangerous symptoms such as confusion, fever, and diarrhea.
A SAM-e overdose could cause a dangerous group of symptoms known as serotonin syndrome. This eMedTV resource lists specific symptoms from this group and describes the steps your doctor may take to treat a SAM-e overdose.
There is currently not enough information available to recommend SAM-e for pregnant women. This eMedTV page offers a more in-depth look at SAM-e and pregnancy, and discusses the safety and effectiveness of SAM-e for intrahepatic cholestasis.
It is currently not known whether SAM-e is safe for use in breastfeeding women. This eMedTV resource provides more information about SAM-e and breastfeeding, and explains why "natural" products may not necessarily be safer than medications.
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