S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM-e) is a naturally occurring molecule found throughout the human body. It is also a popular ingredient in
dietary supplements and is often claimed to be helpful for the following conditions:
- Depression
- Arthritis
- Fibromyalgia
- AIDS-related myelopathy (a spine and nerve disorder associated with AIDS)
- Intrahepatic cholestasis (a decreased ability of the liver to secrete bile, often caused by pregnancy or other conditions)
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Although SAM-e is regulated as a dietary supplement in the United States, not a drug, it is a prescription drug in some other countries.
SAM-e is a molecule that plays an essential role in over 100 chemical reactions in the body. The body can make SAM-e using methionine, an amino acid. It is not clear exactly how SAM-e works for
depression treatment or other uses. SAM-e causes several changes in the brain that may be responsible for its antidepressant effects.
SAM-e is believed to work in several different ways for
arthritis treatment. It may have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects, and may stimulate the growth and repair of cartilage in joints.
People with intrahepatic cholestasis often have a decreased ability to make SAM-e, which can cause numerous problems and can further worsen liver problems. SAM-e supplements can help make up for this decrease in production.
SAM-e may work for AIDS-related myelopathy because SAM-e levels in the spinal fluid of people with AIDS are often low.
Reliable evidence suggests that SAM-e may be effective for
depression,
arthritis, and intrahepatic cholestasis. However, not enough research has been done to know if it is effective for other uses.
Dosing Information for SAM-e
Although less information is available on the dosing of supplements, such as SAM-e, compared to drugs, some information about SAM-e dosing is available based on clinical studies and years of practical experience with the supplement.
Although it is a "natural" product, SAM-e can still cause side effects. Some of the more commonly reported side effects include:
(Click SAM-e Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Drug Interactions With SAM-e
SAM-e appears to be safe for many people. Some people may be more likely to experience problems with it than others. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider before taking SAM-e if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
(Click SAM-e Safety for more information, including any available SAM-e warnings and precautions.)
What If I Take an Overdose of SAM-e?
It is not known exactly what to expect from an overdose of SAM-e. If you think you may have taken too much, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should SAM-e Be Stored?
Refer to the label of your individual SAM-e product for information on how to best store it. Keep SAM-e and all other medications or supplements out of the reach of children.
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