A Supplement – SAMe – Proves Helpful in Major Depression

The supplement SAMe (S-adenosyl methionine) has been used for some years, but there is still some doubt about its effectiveness in a number of conditions, including depression.  This may change, based on a report in the American Journal of Psychiatry. 

Many patients with major depression may continue to have symptoms, despite medication.  Investigators at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School conducted a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial in 73 adults with a major depressive disorder that were not responding to a serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRI) drug.  Over a 6-week period oral SAMe or a matching placebo were added to the subjects’ regular dose of SRI.  The progress of depression was assessed using the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D).

The average improvement in HAM-D scores and the remission rate were significantly higher in the SAMe subjects – 36% and 27%, compared with placebo’s 18% and 12%, respectively).  SAMe was well tolerated, and there were no reported serious adverse effects.

The researchers say that this is a preliminary finding that requires replication, but it suggests a meaningful benefit to patients who have SAMe added to their antidepressant medication.  Score one for a supplement that has been in the shadows for too many years . . .