Question:
Does SAM-e help reduce pain from osteoarthritis more than a placebo pill?
Answer:
No
MedHead Confidence Score: 1
Amount Saved: $50 medical research cost
MedHead Message:
Sam-e may help with osteoarthritis pain and function, there are several studies from the 1980’s on this, but the most recent Cochrane review has stated that sam-e is not clearly superior to a sugar pill. You may try it but you’ll need to take at least 400 mg 2-3 times daily for 2-3 months.
References:
1. Rutjes AWS, Nüesch E, Reichenbach S, Jüni P. S‐Adenosylmethionine for osteoarthritis of the knee or hip. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2009, Issue 4. Art. No.: CD007321. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD007321.pub2.
