Folates and S-adenosylmethionine for major depressive disorder

摘要: Interest in nonpharmaceutical supplements for treating major depressive disorder (MDD) has increased significantly, both among patients and clinicians during the past decades. Despite large array of antidepressants (ADs) available, many continue to experience relatively modest response remission rates, addition a burden side effects that can hinder treatment compliance acceptability. In this article, we review literature on folates S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), 2 natural compounds linked 1-carbon cycle metabolic pathway, which substantial evidence supports their involvement mood disorders. Background information, efficacy data, proposed mechanisms action, are reviewed. Based existing supplementation with SAMe, as well various formulations folates, appears be efficacious tolerated reducing symptoms. Compared other forms 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (L-methylfolate or 5-MTHF) may represent preferable option MDD given its greater bioavailability genetic polymorphism, lower risk specific associated folic acid. Although further randomized controlled trials area appear warranted, SAMe L-methylfolate useful AD armamentarium.