SAM-e FOR DEPRESSION? [ back to What's New ]
Doctors in Europe have been prescribing a synthetic version of S-adenosylmethionine (SAM-e), a naturally occurring bodily chemical, for depression, liver disease and arthritis. The manufacturers of this product have just brought it to America, touting it in health food stores across the country as a highly effective, natural remedy against depression with no side effects. Scientific testing of its safety and effectiveness have only just begun, so it is way too early to accept or reject these claims, but caution is advised. The UC Berkeley Wellness Letter advises that reports of stomach upset have been made, and that SAM-e appears to increase the risk of heart attacks by increasing the concentration of homocysteine in the body. They also caution not to drop your anti-depressant in favor of SAM-e or start taking SAM-e with your anti-depressant without first consulting your physician. If you decide to take SAM-e the Wellness letter suggests taking a B vitamin or eating Vitamin B rich foods like broccoli to lower homocysteine levels.