SAMe
Also called: S-adenosylmethionine, S-adenosyl-L-methionine
A compound your body makes from methionine and uses in many reactions, including making brain chemicals. It's used for mood, joint pain, and the liver.
Medical Disclaimer
Supplements can interact with medications and aren't right for everyone, especially during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or with a chronic condition. Ask your provider before you start.
Studied for
- Low mood (some studies)
- Osteoarthritis pain (some studies)
- Liver support, including slowed bile flow (some studies)
Found naturally in
- Not found in food in useful amounts
- Your body makes it from methionine
- Folate, B12, and B6 help your body make it
Label red flags
- Tablets loose in a bottle instead of sealed blister packs, since SAMe breaks down with moisture
- Labels that don't say how much active SAMe each tablet gives
Check with a provider
- Bipolar disorder. SAMe can trigger mania.
- Taking antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs), triptans, tramadol, or other medicines that raise serotonin. Together they can cause serotonin syndrome.
- Taking levodopa for Parkinson's. SAMe may make it less effective.
- Having surgery soon. Stop it at least 2 weeks before.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Nausea, stomach upset, or feeling jittery are the most common side effects
Usually found in mood support formulas, joint formulas, liver support formulas. Browse the Lesher Wellness store
Parts of the body it affects
Explore what each area does and the conditions that can affect it.
Brain & nerves
Your brain, spinal cord, and nerves carry every signal in your body, from movement and sensation to mood and memory.
Joints
Joints let your bones move smoothly. Swelling and morning stiffness, rather than ache alone, can point to inflammation.
Liver
Your liver filters your blood, processes hormones and medicines, and makes bile to digest fat.
Illustrations: Servier Medical Art, CC BY 4.0
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Dr. Lesher is a Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on autoimmune and chronic conditions in women. Since 2020, she's helped hundreds of patients stop managing symptoms and start healing.