Same Interactions Overview

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Same

Also known as
  • S-adenosyl-L-methionine
  • Ademetionine
  • AdoMet
  • S-Adenosyl Methionine
  • S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine
  • S-Adénosyl-L-Méthionine
  • S-Adenosylmethionine
  • S-Adénosylméthionine
  • S-Adenosylmethionine Tosylate Disulfate
  • SAM
  • SAM-e
Same S-adenosyl-l-methionine (SAM-e or SAMe) is a compound that is found naturally in the body and is involved in various processes, including the synthesis of neurotransmitters and the metabolism of hormones. SAM-e has been studied as a potential treatment for a variety of health conditions, including depression, osteoarthritis, and liver disease. As a dietary supplement, it is most often used for improving symptoms of depression and for osteoarthritis. In regard to depression, research suggests that SAM-e may be more effective than placebo in reducing the severity of depression and may be as effective as certain antidepressants for some individuals. However, more research is needed. Similarly, for osteoarthritis, some studies show that it is as effective in reducing symptoms for some individuals as NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen). There are a variety of different forms of SAM-e supplements available on the market, typically different salt forms (e.g., sulfate, sulfate-p-toluenesulfonate, and butanedisulfonate), which may affect how well it is absorbed.
There are 186 drugs known to interact with Same

Additional Details

Is SAM-e Safe? Are There Any Warnings?

SAM-e is considered safe for oral, intravenous, or intramuscular use when used appropriately. Clinical studies involving over 22,000 patients lasting from a few days to 2 years found no serious adverse effects.

How Does SAM-e Work? What Is the Mechanism of Action?

SAM-e, a naturally occurring molecule, acts as a primary methyl group donor in the body. It plays a crucial role in over 100 biochemical reactions, including the synthesis, activation, and metabolism of hormones, neurotransmitters, nucleic acids, proteins, and more. SAM-e is produced from homocysteine and 5-methylene tetrahydrofolate and is closely linked to vitamin B12 and folate metabolism. Deficiencies in these vitamins can lead to decreased SAM-e concentrations.

SAM-e has various effects:

  • Antidepressant effects: SAM-e is associated with increased serotonin turnover, elevated dopamine and norepinephrine levels. It may alter neuronal membrane fluidity and receptor density, contributing to its role in treating depression.
  • Anti-arthritic effects: SAM-e's anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties make it beneficial for osteoarthritis by stimulating cartilage growth and repair.
  • Neuroprotective effects: SAM-e's role in various biochemical reactions contributes to neuroprotection, potentially impacting conditions like Alzheimer's disease and epilepsy.
  • Cardiovascular effects: While there were concerns about SAM-e's impact on homocysteine levels, it may actually help regulate homocysteine metabolism, which is linked to heart and kidney health.

Pharmacokinetics

When taken orally, SAM-e is absorbed into the bloodstream, with peak levels reached in about 5 hours. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and is distributed throughout the body. SAM-e has a short half-life of about 6 hours. Oral bioavailability varies based on the salt form. It's excreted in urine and feces.

Common Side Effects To Watch For

Common side effects of SAM-e include anorexia, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, dry mouth, flatulence, headache, insomnia, nausea, nervousness, sweating, and vomiting.

What Is SAM-e Typically Used For?

SAM-e is used for various purposes:

  • Osteoarthritis: SAM-e can reduce symptoms similarly to NSAIDs.
  • Cholestasis: It's effective for treating cholestasis.
  • Depression: SAM-e is used as a second-line agent or in combination with conventional medications for depression.
  • Other Uses: SAM-e has been studied for conditions like alcohol-related liver disease, Alzheimer's disease, fibromyalgia, and more, but further evidence is needed.

Are Supplements Standardized?

SAM-e supplements come in various salt forms, including sulfate, tosylate, and butanedisulfonate. Standardization varies among products, and stability concerns have been raised. Specific tablets have been standardized for isomer content.

Interaction Overview

SAM-e can interact with certain drugs and supplements:

  • LEVODOPA: SAM-e might reduce the effectiveness of levodopa, a drug for Parkinson's disease.
  • SEROTONERGIC DRUGS: Combining SAM-e with serotonergic drugs might increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.
  • HERBS AND SUPPLEMENTS: SAM-e's serotonergic effects can interact with herbs and supplements with similar properties.
  • Conditions: SAM-e might interact with conditions like bipolar disorder, Lesch-Nyhan syndrome, and more.

Dosing & Administration

Recommended doses of SAM-e range from 400 to 1600 mg daily, often divided into 1-3 doses. Intravenous or intramuscular administration is also used. SAM-e should be taken on an empty stomach.

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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC