Posted by MrBill on August 15, 2000, at 8:22:56
In reply to Elavil and SAM-e. Same chemical makeup?, posted by bee on August 14, 2000, at 19:56:33
Bee:
S-adenosylmethionine is a small molecule found in all organisms. Its primary function is as a methyl donor in the synthesis of RNA/DNA, protein, polyamines, and phopholipids. Thus, SAM is in every part of the body and is a common component of cellular function. Given that, defining a specific target is very difficult. The only correlation to depression that I know of is that SAM may increase levels of many amines including serotonin, norepinepherine, and dopamine. However, there is evidence that SAM is not taken by intact cells. Personally, I would be very suspect of SAM as an antidepressant, and I would not use it instead or mix it with prescribed medications.
Bill
poster:MrBill
thread:42880
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000811/msgs/42938.html