Does the SAM-e work for anxiety?
SAMe seems, at least in theory, to be relevant to the treatment of depression and anxiety because SAMe determines the rate at which serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine are synthesized. SAMe determines how much serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine are present in the brain and central nervous system. Patients should be aware that SAMe may interact with antidepressants and can possibly increase anxiety and mania in patients with bipolar disorder.
Can SAM-e cause weight gain?
Since its side effects are less than those of many antidepressants, SAM-e might be tolerated better by many people. It works more rapidly and does not cause weight gain, sexual dysfunction, sedation, or cognitive interference. For depression, many study participants have started at 400-600 milligrams daily. For osteoarthritis, 600-1,200 milligrams of SAM-e daily, divided into three doses, is common. Ask your doctor for advice. Sometimes, the dose of SAM-e is raised gradually over a few weeks.