What Is SAM-e?

SAM-e is a compound made naturally in the body. It aids in normal body functions. SAM-e is an abbreviation that stands for S-adenosylmethionine. The compound is also referred to as “os-adenosyl-methionine” or “SAMe” or “SAME” or “samee.”

More specifically, Mayo Clinic says that SAM-e helps produce and regulate hormones, and helps maintain cell membranes.  

It is produced naturally in the body from amino acids and is also sold in a synthetic version as a supplement. Very Well Health says that SAM-e is not found in food, and notes that it is produced by the human body from other substances. People who have low levels of folate, vitamin B12, or folate may not be able to naturally produce enough SAM-e. 
Very Well Health says people who take SAM-e for osteoarthritis take between 200 and 400 milligrams three times a day, whereas those who take it for depression take between 800 milligrams and 1,600 milligrams a day.

What does SAM-e do?

It aids in a range of normal bodily functions, and some research indicates that it may be an effective treatment in conditions like osteoarthritis and depression. 

The compound is also being studied for use in other conditions, but this information is not considered conclusive. Very Well Health says that some studies indicate that it SAM-e might help ease pain from fibromyalgia and spinal cord damage caused by HIV. Other conditions it might help with include ADHD and cholestasis, a buildup of bile in the liver.

Are there side effects of SAM-e?

WebMD says that SAM-e can cause a number of possible side effects, including “anxiety, constipation, diarrhea, dry mouth, headache, heartburn, insomnia, gas, low blood sugar, nausea, nervousness, skin rashes, and vomiting.”  

Very Well Health goes on to say that in large amounts, the compound can cause mania. Reportedly, the compound may also cause an allergic reaction in some users.

What research has been done on SAM-e?

Some studies have investigated the benefits of SAM-e, and have indicated that it may be beneficial for some conditions.

A blog post published by the New York Times notes that Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital indicates that the SAM-e could be helpful in treating depression. The study reportedly gave “clues into the physical pathways of depression,” and how the compound interacts with this pathway.  

However, no large clinical trials have been conducted on the compound, so SAM-e has not been proven to treat or cure any conditions.

Is SAM-e a supplement or a drug?

SAM-e is considered a supplement in the U.S. and is therefore not subjected to the same regulations as substances classified as drugs by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Supplements have come under fire for containing dangerous fillers or not working as advertised. 

However, in some countries in Europe, SAM-e is sold as a prescription drug and has been for many years.

What are some brands of SAM-e supplements?

Some brands of SAM-e supplements include:

• Vitamins Because You Are Worth It
• NusaPure
• aSquared Nutrition
• We Like Vitamins
• BoostCeuticals
• Healthy Way
• Mental Refreshment

Join a Free SAM-e Supplements Lawsuit Investigation

You may qualify to join this SAM-e class action lawsuit investigation if you purchased SAM-e supplements sold by one of these supplement companies:

• Vitamins Because You Are Worth It
• NusaPure
• aSquared Nutrition
• We Like Vitamins
• BoostCeuticals
• Healthy Way
• Mental Refreshment

Learn More

This article is not legal advice. It is presented
for informational purposes only.