S-adenosyl methionine, also known as S-adenosyl-L-methionine, S-adenosyl methionine, usually abbreviated as SAMe, SAM-e or AdoMet, is a naturally occurring compound found in nearly every tissue and fluid in the human body. It plays a vital role in various biochemical processes, including methylation, which is essential for cell function and the synthesis of neurotransmitters.
SAMe is a molecule naturally produced in the body from homocysteine and folate. It can also be made in a lab and taken as a supplement. SAMe has been marketed as a dietary supplement in the United States since 1999, but has been used as a prescription drug in Italy, Spain and Germany for decades.
biochemical effects
SAMe was discovered in the early 1950s. It is made in the body from methionine, an amino acid found in food. It has been found to regulate key functions of living cells. SAMe acts as a methyl donor in many biochemical reactions, facilitating the transfer of methyl groups to other molecules. Methylation reactions are involved in DNA synthesis and repair, protein synthesis, neurotransmitter metabolism, and regulation of gene expression. Abnormal levels of SAMe in the body have been reported to cause liver disease and depression. This prompted researchers to investigate whether SAMe could help treat these diseases. The idea that SAMe might help treat osteoarthritis came from studies of SAMe treating depression. Some depression study participants with osteoarthritis said their joint symptoms improved after taking SAMe.
neurotransmitter synthesis
SAMe is involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine, which are important for mood regulation, cognitive function and emotional health.
liver function
SAMe supports liver health by aiding in the synthesis of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect liver cells from damage caused by oxidative stress and toxins.
joint health
SAMe has been studied for its potential role in relieving symptoms of osteoarthritis. It may help reduce inflammation, improve joint function, and relieve pain associated with arthritis.
Emotional and mental health
Some research suggests that SAMe supplements may have antidepressant effects and may be beneficial for people with depression or mood disorders. It can also improve cognitive function and reduce anxiety symptoms.
Uses and benefits
depression
SAMe has been studied as a potential treatment for depression, either as a stand-alone treatment or in combination with antidepressant medications. Some studies suggest that SAMe may be as effective as traditional antidepressant medications in relieving symptoms of depression.
Overall, the evidence for the effectiveness of oral SAMe in depression remains inconclusive. While some studies have demonstrated potential benefits, limitations such as short duration, small sample sizes and different dosing methods cast doubt on their reliability.
Osteoarthritis
SAMe supplementation has been studied for its ability to reduce pain and improve joint function, particularly in the knees and hips, in people with osteoarthritis. Research suggests that SAMe may have anti-inflammatory properties that may help slow the progression of joint degeneration. Taking SAMe by mouth appears to reduce osteoarthritis symptoms as well as ibuprofen and other similar medications. But most people need to take SAMe for about a month to feel better.
A study comparing oral SAMe to NSAIDs or placebo in patients with knee or hip osteoarthritis found that SAMe had similar pain relief and improvement in joint function. SAMe has fewer side effects than NSAIDs, but its benefit relative to placebo is inconclusive.
liver health
SAMe is used to support liver function and may be beneficial for individuals with liver disease such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver damage caused by alcohol or drug use. It helps promote the synthesis of glutathione, which plays a key role in detoxification and antioxidant defense.
Reduced levels of SAMe in the body may be associated with liver disease, and animal studies suggest it may be beneficial for liver problems. However, it is unclear whether SAMe contributes to liver disease in humans. Studies of SAMe in the treatment of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) have conflicting results, and it is uncertain whether SAMe is effective in ICP. Research on SAMe's use in treating other liver diseases and preventing liver cancer is inconclusive.
brain health
Some studies suggest that SAMe may have neuroprotective effects and help improve cognitive function and memory in older adults. It may also be beneficial for individuals with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease.
other
SAMe has also been studied for other conditions, including fibromyalgia, migraines, schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, but there is insufficient evidence to draw conclusions about its effects on these conditions. Trials of SAMe as a smoking cessation aid showed that it did not increase quit rates or reduce withdrawal symptoms.
Safety and precautions
SAMe is generally considered safe for most people when taken at recommended doses. However, it may cause some people. Side effects may include gas, diarrhea, constipation, dry mouth, headache, and nervousness, especially at higher doses.
SAMe may interact with certain medications, including antidepressants, medications for Parkinson's disease, and medications that affect serotonin levels. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before starting supplementation with SAMe, especially if you have an underlying health condition or are taking other medications.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women and people with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia should exercise caution when considering supplementing with SAMe and consult a healthcare provider before use.
