SAM-e Side Effects

The most commonly reported side effects are gastrointestinal- primarily heartburn, nausea and stomachache (B Konig (1987). No toxic effects have been reported in humans. Consult your physician if you are currently taking prescription anti-depressants. SAM-e should NOT be combined with other anti-depressant drugs without the supervision of a physician. SAM-e should not be taken by those with bi-polar disorder (manic depression).

SAM-e and Homocysteine

One of the byproducts of normal SAMe metabolism is homocysteine. When there are adequate supplies of the metabolites, such as B6, B12 and folic acid, required for the synthesis and regeneration of SAMe, homocysteine breakdown occurs either through re-methylation or through trans-sulfuration. These processes turn homocysteine into glutathione, a powerful antioxidant. Therefore, supplementation with B6, B12 and folic acid may insure proper function of SAMe.