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S-adenosyl-L-methionine
Helps boost mood naturally, maintain a healthy liver and improves the condition of joints.
Benefits
  • In transmethylation reactions, SAMe donates a methyl group to various substrates including DNA, proteins, neurotransmitters, and phospholipids.
  • In transsulfuration reactions, SAMe promotes antioxidant activity and stimulates the synthesis of proteoglycans for cartilage regeneration.
  • SAMe is important to three key metabolic pathways: transmethylation, transsulfuration and polyamine synthesis.
  • SAMe is involved in the synthesis of polyamines which are involved in the regulation of cell growth.
Precautions
  • Lactating and pregnant women should consult their physicians. In some clinical trials, doses of 3200 mg/d were administered intravenously to pregnant women without any harm to mother or offspring.
  • SAMe is not recommended for use by children.
  • SAMe should not be taken by patients with bipolar (manic) depression without doctor supervision.
Drug Nutrient Interactions
Recommended Icon
Current research does not indicate that this supplement should be taken to avoid depletions when taking any of the drug categories included in this table.
RX recommended Icon
Antidepressants

SAM-e in combination with antidepressant drugs that increase CNS serotonin levels (SSRIs, tricyclic antidepressants, venlafaxine, MAO inhibitors, others) can increase the risk of serotonergic side effects, including serotonin syndrome. Do not use with antidepressants unless recommended and monitored by a physician or other healthcare professional.
Arthritis Medications

A number of clinical trials support the use of SAM-e for those with osteoarthritis.
Caution icon
Drugs for Weight Loss

Caution patients of potential for additive side effects if taking SAMe with Meridia. SAMe may have effects on serotonin metabolism; in this case it is prudent to consult your MD before taking SAMe along with prescriptions known to affect serotonin levels such as sibutramine.
Avoid icon
Current research does not indicate that this supplement should be avoided when taking any of the drug categories included in this table.
 Nutrition and Health State
RX recommended Icon
If no prescription medications are being used, the following supplements may be beneficial for this health state. If prescription medications are being used, please see the drug-interaction database before making recommendations.
A daily multivitamin will help ensure adequate intake of all essential nutrients and promote overall health and well-being.
Depression ( or Mood disorder)

SAM-e is naturally produced in our body, however it declines with age. SAM-e has shown to enhance mood in those suffering from mood disorders. Dosage varies. Furthermore, studies suggest SAM-e may augment the actions of antidepressant drugs in patients who are refactory to, or do not get full remission from their antidepressants.
Chronic Pain/Chronic Back Pain

at least 400 mg/day
Muscle Pain (e.g. Fibromyalgia)

800+ mg/day SAM-e may minimize certain complications of this disorder, such as muscle pain and fatigue.
Osteoarthritis

at least 400 mg/day. SAM-e has shown to be beneficial in reducing symptoms of joint pain and discomfort related to osteoarthritis.
Caution icon

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