Effects of S-adenosylmethionine augmentation of serotonin-reuptake inhibitor antidepressants on cognitive symptoms of major depressive disorder

Yechiel Levkovitz, Jonathan E. Alpert, Carrie E. Brintz, David Mischoulon, George I. Papakostas

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

38 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: Major depressive disorder (MDD) is often accompanied by significant cognitive impairment, and there are limited interventions specific to this particular symptom. S-adenosyl methionine (SAMe), a naturally occurring molecule which serves as a major methyl-donor in human cellular metabolism, is required for the synthesis and maintenance of several neurotransmitters that have been implicated in the pathophysiology and treatment of cognitive dysfunction in MDD. Methods: This study is a secondary analysis of a clinical trial involving the use of adjunctive SAMe for MDD. Forty-six serotonin-reuptake inhibitor (SRI) non-responders with MDD enrolled in a 6-week, double-blind, randomized trial of adjunctive oral SAMe were administered the self-rated cognitive and physical symptoms questionnaire (CPFQ), a validated measure of cognitive as well as physical symptoms of MDD, before and after treatment. Results: There was a greater improvement in the ability to recall information (p = 0.04) and a trend toward statistical significance for greater improvement in word-finding (p = 0.09) for patients who received adjunctive SAMe than placebo. None of the remaining five items reached statistical significance. Conclusion: These preliminary data suggest that SAMe can improve memory-related cognitive symptoms in depressed patients, and warrant replication.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1174-1178
Number of pages5
JournalJournal of Affective Disorders
Volume136
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 2012
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Cognitive function
  • Major depression
  • One-carbon cycle
  • S-adenosylmethionine

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Clinical Psychology
  • Psychiatry and Mental health

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