SAM-e
A compound with reasonable evidence for mood and joint comfort.
Want to try SAM-e?
See our pick — chosen for form and dose — in our professional dispensary. Please read Safety & interactions first.
Buy on Fullscript →You'll create a free Fullscript account and check out through our professional dispensary — 20% off retail.
We may earn a commission on Fullscript purchases, at no extra cost to you. Affiliate Disclosure
What it is
SAM-e is a compound your body makes that's involved in methylation, neurotransmitter production, and cartilage. It's used for both mood and joint support.
How it works
SAM-e is a compound the body makes that donates methyl groups and is involved in producing neurotransmitters and maintaining cartilage. Those roles underlie its use for both mood and joint comfort.
What it's been studied for
Taken to support mood and joint comfort.
What the evidence shows
SAM-e has a comparatively reasonable evidence base: studies suggest it may help symptoms of depression and reduce osteoarthritis pain, in some cases comparably to standard options. One of the better-supported entries in this group.
Who should consider it
It's used for mood and joint comfort, with a comparatively reasonable evidence base. Because it affects serotonin pathways, people on antidepressants or with bipolar disorder need medical guidance before using it.
Amounts commonly studied
Mood studies often use higher amounts; osteoarthritis studies commonly use around 600-1,200 mg per day, taken on an empty stomach.
How to take it
Osteoarthritis studies commonly use 600-1,200 mg per day, taken on an empty stomach; mood studies often use higher amounts. Enteric-coated tablets protect the unstable compound — keep them sealed and cool.
Forms & absorption
Enteric-coated tablets protect the unstable compound; keep sealed and cool.
Food sources
None — SAM-e is made in the body and taken only as a manufactured supplement.
Safety & interactions
Can cause digestive upset or, at higher doses, restlessness. Important: it should not be combined with antidepressants or other serotonergic drugs without medical guidance, and it may trigger mania in people with bipolar disorder. Coordinate with a provider.
Myths & what it won't do
Myth: SAM-e is a gentle, interaction-free mood herb. Reality: it's a potent methyl donor that shouldn't be combined with antidepressants without guidance and can trigger mania in bipolar disorder. Myth: it's instantly effective. Reality: effects build over time.
Common questions
- Does SAM-e work for mood or joints?
- It has comparatively reasonable evidence for both mild-to-moderate low mood and osteoarthritis pain, though it's not a substitute for care.
- Can I take it with antidepressants?
- Not without medical guidance — it affects serotonin pathways and can be risky combined with serotonergic drugs, and it may trigger mania in bipolar disorder.
- Why enteric-coated?
- SAM-e is unstable, so enteric-coated tablets protect it; keep them sealed and cool.
The amounts listed here are what published research has used — not a prescription or a recommended dose for you. Confirm anything you plan to take with your own healthcare provider, especially if you take medications, are pregnant or nursing, or have a health condition.
Related goals
Research on SAM-e
Recommendations on this page are informed by published research. This is educational information, not medical advice.
- Rutjes AW, Nüesch E, Reichenbach S, Jüni P. S-Adenosylmethionine for osteoarthritis of the knee or hip. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2009;(4):CD007321. View study →Note: This Cochrane review found the evidence too limited and inconsistent to establish whether SAM-e relieves osteoarthritis symptoms.