Sam-e Fights Depression and Arthritis

Sam-e is an interesting supplement. Feeling "the blues" but not interested in taking Prozac? You might wonder about an alternative approach to depression and whether over-the-counter remedies can work on your moods. SAM-e is a natural substance produced in the body (S-Adenosyl Methionine, or Sam-E) when the amino acid L-methionine is combined with ATP. Sam-e is most concentrated in the brain and liver, and occurs naturally in all human cells.

Like St. John's Wort, SAM-e helps moderate serotonin levels in the brain (it is often a serotonin imbalance which is responsible for depression). Some people prefer SAM-e to St. John's Wort for depression because it's believed to work faster. It's claimed to be an alternative treatment for depression, arthritis, and liver disease. Like some other supplements, SAM-e has a good reputation backed up by a number of studies, but its full benefits, safety, and long-term effects are not yet certain.

SAM-e is actually a synthetic form of a chemical that occurs naturally in the human body, and is a useful chemical in the nervous system, cells, and even the brain. In Europe, doctors prescribe SAM-e for depression, arthritis, and liver problems.

The University of California, Berkeley Health Newsletter says this about SAM-e: "People should seek medical advice before trying SAM-e. If it works, it's a drug, and should be regulated and prescribed like one, as it is in Europe." (The reason for this statement is that SAM-e is neither a dietary supplement nor a 'natural' product.) However, the same article calls SAM-e "worthy of intensive study." The U.S. Public Health Service concluded its studies by declaring that more study was needed.

On the flip side, lack of regulation does not prevent consumers from experimenting with herbs and supplements on their own, as long as some guidelines exist. Keep in mind that just because something is marketed as 'natural' does not mean it's effective or even safe. For that matter, SAM-e is a synthetic, and despite claims of limited side effects by manufacturers, users have reported unpleasant side effects, such as headaches, stomach upset, and dizziness.

Sam-e Side Effects

People with bipolar disorder should not take SAM-e because it can bring on or worsen manic episodes. Like St. John's Wort, this should not be used with other anti-depressants -- only on its own. UC Berkeley says SAM-e is "worth a try" for joint problems.

The American Academy of Family Physicians agrees: "SAM-e has enough of an antidepressant effect to warrant further research." In the same article, this group cautions that, "no studies have yet validated the long-term safety or efficacy of SAM-e."

However, with your own discretion and research, as with any herb or supplement, you may decide to try this on your own. If you do so, be sure to consult with a physician, especially if you have any concerns. SAM-e is a popular treatment for mild depression and certainly enjoys popularity in Europe.

Unlike other over the counter supplements, SAM-e is not cheap. It's usually about $0.50 to $1 per tablet. Typical dosage is one 200mg tablet twice a day.

Personal comments: I've used Sam-e to get through incredibly stressful periods at work. I find it to be an amazing antidepressant, and it works far better than glucosamine for my joints. However, I did have one interesting side effect (as did a friend also experimenting with Sam-e)...

While on it, I completely lost my short term memory. It was truly bizzare. I have a ton of things to remember on a daily basis, and I usually do so easily. On Sam-e, I totally and completely forgot these things, and had to start making much more significant notes in my day-timer. Luckily, this side-effect reversed itself once I stopped taking it. Too bad though... it is one of the most effective products I've tried.

Have you been the victim of a product that makes exaggerated claims? Launch a complaint!

US visitors should submit a complaint to the US Federal Trade Commission!

Canadians, submit a complaint at the Canadian Competition Bureau!