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Is Supplement Safe for Depression?

Q. I’m wondering what information you have about SAMe as a treatment for depression. I’ve been taking it for six months along with a daily B vitamin and have gotten great results. I would like to know if it’s really safe.

A. An analysis of S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) in combination with folate (B vitamin) shows that this regimen reduces symptoms of depression without unpleasant side effects (Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, July, 2012).

Exercise, sun exposure and counseling are also helpful. You can learn more about them in The Depression Cure by Stephen Ilardi, PhD. You will find our interview with Dr. Ilardi on depression on our website. We also offer a number of recommendations on non-drug approaches to depression in our Guide to Dealing with Depression.

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About the Author
Joe Graedon is a pharmacologist who has dedicated his career to making drug information understandable to consumers. His best-selling book, The People’s Pharmacy, was published in 1976 and led to a syndicated newspaper column, syndicated public radio show and web site. In 2006, Long Island University awarded him an honorary doctorate as “one of the country's leading drug experts for the consumer.”.
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