S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) is a naturally occurring compound found in cells that is required for a number of metabolic pathways. In these pathways SAMe is often used to transfer a methyl chemical group and in this way the compound is involved in the regulation of a number of cellular responses. In recent times SAMe has become available as a supplement and a number of physiological changes have been observed with SAMe supplementation. One particularly interesting property of SAMe is its ability to reduce depressive symptoms in individuals. One suggestion is that this effect is directly linked to its ability to transfer methyl groups. Studies show that SAMe is as effective as a number of pharmaceutical treatments for depression, but it is not associated with side effects. In particular, SAMe is particularly effective against endogenous depression, with benefits found in depressed mood, guilt, suicidal tendencies and psychomotor retardation. Improvements are normally seen within about 1 week.
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