SAM-e may help mood, bone health

S-adenosyl-L-methionine -- popularly known as SAM-e (pronounced “sammy”) -- occurs naturally in the human body, where it plays a role in many important biochemical pathways, including DNA synthesis. In Spain, Germany and Italy, the compound is sold as a prescription drug for treating depression, liver disease and osteoarthritis.

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Uses: In the United States, SAM-e is sold as a dietary supplement for improving bone health and mood. It’s also taken to improve liver health, mental performance and fibromyalgia -- which causes muscle and joint pain and fatigue -- and to alleviate some symptoms of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.

Dose: 400 to 1,600 milligrams a day for depression and liver problems, or 200 to 1,200 milligrams for bone health; taken in two to three separate doses on an empty stomach.

Precautions: Side effects are rare and mild, but include upset stomach, headache and anxiety. The supplement also may cause mania in people with bipolar disorder. Little is known about the effects of high-dose or long-term use of SAM-e.

Research: A 2002 report by the Department of Health and Human Services reviewed the results from about 50 clinical trials of SAM-e and concluded that the compound is “equivalent to standard therapy for depression and osteoarthritis.” Several studies also suggested that SAM-e works faster and produces fewer side effects than many other antidepressants. The report concluded that although SAM-e was superior to placebo pills for treating some aspects of liver disease, it was not necessarily better than standard available treatments. Other trials, not addressed in the report, have failed to show that SAM-e is useful in treating fibromyalgia.

Dietary supplement makers are not required by the U.S. government to demonstrate that their products are safe or effective. Ask your health-care provider for advice on selecting a brand.

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-- Elena Conis