General Description
S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAMe) is a naturally occurring compound
distributed to virtually all body tissues and fluids. SAMe is normally
manufactured in the liver from ATP and the essential amino acid
methionine. Folic acid and vitamin B-12 play essential roles in
this process.
Health applications
Primary functions
SAMe plays many important roles throughout the body, participating
in over forty essential biochemical reactions. It is involved
in the production of proteins, hormones, neurotransmitters, glutathione,
and many cartilage components. Supplemental SAMe (available in
Europe since 1975 and introduced to the U.S. in 1997) is popular
for promoting joint and liver health as well as emotional well-being.
SAMe and arthritis
While there has been little research on SAMe conducted in the
U.S., in Europe there have been several studies to determine the
compound's potential in the treatment of osteoarthritis.1-8
Data from these studies indicates that SAMe may be as effective
as many popular nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
3-8 and more effective than placebo 6
in alleviating arthritis symptoms. Although the exact mechanism
of action is unknown, evidence suggests that SAMe may aid in the
repair of damaged cartilage tissues.9-11
Depression
Several studies have suggested that SAMe may be helpful in alleviating
symptoms of depression.
12-17 Abnormal SAMe levels have been observed
in severely depressed subjects,18 and improvement
in depression symptoms has been observed upon increase of plasma
SAMe concentration.17 Research indicates that
SAMe may be as effective as standard tricyclic antidepressants
12,15,17 and more effective than placebo16
in the treatment of depression. While the evidence
from these small-scale studies is encouraging, larger, placebo-controlled
trials are needed to verify the results.
Liver health
Among the many functions SAMe performs in the body, it plays an
essential role in liver health. SAMe is required for the production
of glutathione, the liver's main detoxifying antioxidant. Studies
have shown that SAMe supplementation can help improve depleted
glutathione levels in patients with liver disease.19
SAMe has also been shown to reduce the buildup of fatty deposits
in the liver associated with cirrhosis. 20,21
Dosage/toxicity
SAMe is usually taken in doses ranging from 400 to 1,200 mg per
day, and has an excellent safety record at this dosage range.
Side effects, when reported, are usually limited to mild stomach
upset. SAMe is not recommended for people with bipolar disorder
because it may activate the manic phase.14
People taking medication for depression should consult their physician
before taking SAMe. |
