Using SAMe for Depression

Darrell Miller

06/04/11

Date: June 04, 2011 10:15 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Using SAMe for Depression

SAMe, or S-adenosyl-L-methionine, has been promoted for the treatment of depression and various physical conditions. It is believed to help improve the feeling of well-being and mood, and its use in treating depression is likely connected with that. Several studies have been carried out, administering SAMe both orally and parenterally with promising results. Some that use it believe it more effective than the more common antidepressants, and unlike most of these it has very few side effects and a very quick onset of action: around 2 weeks in comparison to a month for most others.

A typical study of the many carried out involved 30 subjects taking regular antidepressants but still suffering depression. They were given 0.8 grams SAMe for 2 weeks and then 1.6 grams for 4 weeks. Improvement was obtained in 50% cases and complete remission of symptoms in a total of 43% of the subjects. In another test on 28 subjects, the improvement equaled that of prescription antidepressant drugs.

These significant findings render this over the counter supplement (in the USA) worth taking for anybody that has either no effective help from their regular treatment, or would prefer to try a natural biochemical than a synthetic drug for their condition. You are recommended to refer to your doctor, however, if you intend changing your treatment.