5-HTP/SAM-e

Have, been thinking of taking these for migraine, looking for opinions, experiences. I have tried Topomax/amitryptaline, bad side effects! Yuck! Have been on Lexapro in the past for anxiety and guess what? No headaches! This leads me to think that serotonin is a major player for me, Lex causes lethargy and weight gain, so stopped taking. I feel great except headaches are back with a vengeance. Please send me your thoughts :)

Is anyone using low doses of SAM-e for chronic NON- migraine headaches and fibromyalgia?

I have been reading that you can even cut the enteric coated tabs in half/quarters to get less than the usual 200-400mg. I have also read that taking with food initially can help prevent the gastro. issues that can sometimes occur.

I have tried 5-HTP several times and get "screaming" headaches so I was hoping to re-try SAM-e at this lower dose with food to help with headaches, fibromyalgia pain and mood issues. I had terrible gut issues the last time I tried SAM-e at 200-400mg and it took a few weeks to get it out of my system.

(taken from http://www.wellnessletter.com/html/ds/dsSAMe.php)

Not an herb, hormone, vitamin, or any other kind of nutrient, SAM-e (S-adenosylmethionine) is a synthetic form of a chemical produced naturally in the body. SAM-e is essential to a many chemical processes, including maintaining cells, manufacturing substances used by the nerves, and influencing emotions and moods.

Claims, purported benefits: "Natural" treatment for depression, arthritis, and liver disease. Said to be as effective as aspirin for pain relief, without the side effects. In Europe, on evidence that would be considered inadequate here, SAM-e is sold as a prescription drug for depression, arthritis, and liver disease. In the U.S. and Canada, SAM-e is unregulated.

mssusan said...
Is anyone using low doses of SAM-e for chronic NON- migraine headaches and fibromyalgia?

I have been reading that you can even cut the enteric coated tabs in half/quarters to get less than the usual 200-400mg. I have also read that taking with food initially can help prevent the gastro. issues that can sometimes occur.

I have tried 5-HTP several times and get "screaming" headaches so I was hoping to re-try SAM-e at this lower dose with food to help with headaches, fibromyalgia pain and mood issues. I had terrible gut issues the last time I tried SAM-e at 200-400mg and it took a few weeks to get it out of my system.

UPDATE:
I have been taking 50mg of SAM-e with breakfast for the past few weeks and am getting more severe headaches. One day I tried 2nd dose at lunchtime and seemed to get some anxiety and worse headache. I going to try 50mg with breakfast every 2-3 days to see if I can tolerate that dose.