SAM-E for Depression

SAM-e, or S-Adenosyl methionine, is a supplement that acts as a methyl donor in the brain, which helps in the production of various neurotransmitters including serotonin, dopamine, and acetylcholine. All of these are helpful in treating depression. It also has antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, cell membrane-enhancing, and neuroprotective actions, all of which also help fight depression.

It has been reviewed in over 50 studies and it is proven to help with depression and, in some studies, was shown to be even more powerful than some antidepressants. However, it can be activating for a select few and can lead to anxiety in a very small % of cases. It should be used with caution in those with bipolar disorder, because it can induce mania similar to the way antidepressants can. Overall, SAMe has a favorable side effect profile in that it does not cause sexual dysfunction or weight gain. In fact, studies show that it actually helps with the sexual dysfunction sometimes caused by antidepressants. Studies show it is safe to use with many antidepressants including SSRIs, SNRIs, and TCAs.

The dose range is 400mg to 3200mg per day, but start at 400mg 2x per day. Increase by 200mg every 5 days. The target dose for teens is 800-1000mg 2x per day and for adults is 800-1600mg 2x per day.

It is generally well tolerated and side effects are uncommon, but can include:
Lower appetite (and weight loss)
Insomnia (take in the AM)
Constipation
Nausea
Dry Mouth
Sweating
Dizziness
Anxiety (very rare)

Here is one brand I would recommend but consider all of the following as legitimate: 
-Doctor's Best
-Nature's Trove
-NOW
-Swanson
-Vitacost
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Here is a great review that sums up the above information.