SAMe, medically known as S-adenosylmethionine, is a natural substance found in your body. It also is available as an over-the-counter supplement in North America, in tablet and injectable forms. Depression is a psychological condition that has to be closely monitored and treated. If you suffer from this condition and are considering taking SAMe, first talk to your doctor.
About SAMe
Since its discovery in 1952, SAMe has been extensively researched in clinical studies. In Europe it is approved as a prescription drug for the management of arthritis. Since 1999, SAMe has been listed under the Dietary Supplement and Health Education Act, indicates Drugs.com. Beside its possible benefits in managing depression and arthritis, SAMe also was evaluated for managing fibromyalgia, liver disease, migraines, Alzheimer's and sleeping problems, and some positive findings have been reported. However, more research is needed to fully confirm these findings.
SAMe vs Antidepressants
It is believed that the benefits of using SAMe for depression might derive from the ability of this supplement to increase the levels of serotonin in the brain, therefore having a similar effect as antidepressant drugs, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. SAMe was found to have similar efficacy to conventional drugs. It has a safer profile than standard antidepressants and does not cause symptoms like headaches, sexual dysfunction or sleeping problems. Another benefit of using SAMe is that it has quicker action than antidepressant drugs that typically need up to eight weeks of use before starting to work and improve symptoms of depression.
Although studies show promising results, more research is needed to fully confirm the benefits of SAMe in managing depression, says UMMC.
Dosage
SAMe dosage for depression is 200 mg to 1,600 mg daily, indicates Drugs.com. This dosage might be adjusted by your health care provider based on the severity of your symptoms and other medical conditions associated with depression.
Warnings
SAMe should not be taken by people suffering from manic-depression, also known as bipolar disorder, because it might aggravate manic episodes. Also it is recommended to start with low doses and increase the dosage over time, as high doses of SAMe might induce abnormally elevated mood. The safety of SAMe during pregnancy and lactation, and in children and the elderly has not been enough evaluated, thus should not be taken in these cases. Combining SAMe with conventional antidepressants should be medically supervised.
Considerations
Consult a qualified health care provider to find out optimal dosage of SAMe that might help improve your mood. Keep in mind that SAMe does not replace and should not be used to replace any conventional drugs prescribed for depression.
