Skip to content
DE
Amino acid derivative

S-Adenosyl Methionine

S-adenosyl-L-methionine, usually shortened to SAMe, is a compound the body makes from the amino acid methionine. It is also manufactured as a supplement.

Also listed as SAME, SAMe, Ademethionine, S-adenosyl-L-methionine

Stress & MoodEssential HealthLongevityOrgan FunctionBone & Joint

Bipolar disorder changes the decision

SAMe can worsen manic symptoms in people with bipolar disorder. NCCIH advises against its use in this situation without health care supervision. Symptoms of depression also deserve assessment rather than delayed care while trying a supplement. 1

Antidepressants and Parkinson’s medicines need review

SAMe may interact with medicines or supplements that increase serotonin, including antidepressants, St. John’s wort and L-tryptophan. The MSD Manual describes the risk of serotonin syndrome with certain combinations, a potentially serious reaction. SAMe may also reduce levodopa’s effectiveness, making medication review important for people with Parkinson’s disease. 1 2

What else is known about safety?

Reported side effects are usually digestive, such as nausea. Long-term safety and safety in pregnancy remain inadequately established; NCCIH also advises discussion with a clinician during breastfeeding. For people with weakened immunity, NCCIH describes a theoretical concern that SAMe could encourage Pneumocystis growth, not a demonstrated rate of infections in supplement users. 1

For information, not individual medical advice. Ingredient studies do not establish the effectiveness of these products.

Sources