SAMe – Effective in Treating Depression & Anxiety

S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine or more commonly SAMe is an important biological agent in the human body and participates in detoxification reactions and in the manufacture of brain chemicals, antioxidants, joint tissue structures, and many other important components.

Vitamin Deficiencies Deplete the SAMe

SAMe is normally produced in the liver from the amino acid methionine which is abundant in most diets as well. Because there are no foods that have high SAMe levels, our bodies must make this compound. Folic acid and vitamin B12 are necessary for the synthesis of SAMe, and deficiencies of these vitamins results in low concentrations of SAMe in the central nervous system. SAMe has been found to raise levels of dopamine, and patients may notice the effects in as soon as a week. Dopamine is an important chemical produced by the brain and is responsible for mood.

Clinical Studies – SAMe & Depression

SAMe efficacy was shown to exceed that of placebo and was equal to or slightly better than the older tricyclic antidepressants. Noticeably, in providing a rapid onset of action with fewer side effects. The first application of SAMe was for depression treatment, but as cases were evaluated, it became evident that the compound was also helpful for anxiety, panic attacks, and other problems such as arthritis. The study concluded that depressed and non-depressed people who took SAMe had higher levels of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.

How Does SAMe Work

SAMe speeds production of the receptors in the brain cells which receive the neurotransmitters. The presence of additional receptors allows the neurotransmitters that are present to work more effectively. Some research suggests that SAMe may also make the existing receptors more responsive. All of these mechanisms combined seem to decrease depressive symptoms.

As with any medicine you should check with your healthcare provider. Make sure that SAMe will not affect or have a deleterious interaction with other medications that you are currently taking. Read more about Depression Treatment in Scottsdale.

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