Oral S-adenosylmethionine in depression: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
B L Kagan1, D L Sultzer, N Rosenlicht
1Department of Psychiatry, West Los Angeles VA Medical Center, CA.
The American Journal of Psychiatry
|May 1, 1990
Summary
Oral S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) shows promise as a safe and effective antidepressant for major depression. This study suggests SAMe has a rapid onset of action and few side effects, supporting methylation
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience and Psychiatry
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Background:
- Methylation processes are linked to the development of psychiatric disorders.
- Parenteral S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), a methyl donor, has demonstrated antidepressant properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy and safety of oral S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) as a treatment for major depression.
- To evaluate the onset of action and side effect profile of oral SAMe in depressed inpatients.
Main Methods:
- A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted.
- Fifteen inpatients diagnosed with major depression participated in the study.
Main Results:
- Oral S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) demonstrated a safe and effective antidepressant effect.
- The treatment showed a rapid onset of action with minimal adverse effects.
- One patient with no prior history of mania experienced induced mania.
Conclusions:
- Oral S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) may be a viable alternative for patients intolerant to traditional antidepressants like tricyclic antidepressants.
- The findings reinforce the hypothesis that methylation plays a role in the pathophysiology of depression.
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