DHEA
Other Names: Dehydroepiandrosterone, GL701, Prasterone
Should I take it?
Produced naturally by the adrenal glands, liver, and testes; DHEA is converted in the body to an intermediary product, androstenenedione (andro), and then to the sex hormones estrogen and androgen. The brain may also produce DHEA independently. DHEA production normally decreases as people get older--beginning to decline gradually at about the age of 30 years and falling by 80% to 90% of peak levels by age 80. Some conditions--including depression, type 2 diabetes, chronic fatigue syndrome, and SLE--also result in lowered DHEA levels. Although the effects of DHEA as a dietary supplement have not yet been proven, it has been promoted to help improve conditions associated with low DHEA levels, and to prevent age-related conditions such as memory loss and erectile dysfunction.
The DHEA used in dietary supplements is obtained from chemicals in wild yams. Eating wild yams or using "wild yam extracts", however, does not raise levels of DHEA in the body. Because DHEA may soften dry skin, it may be included as an "anti-aging" ingredient in cosmetic products.
Dosage and Administration
No published studies of DHEA supplementation in humans have lasted longer than about 12 months. The consequences of taking DHEA in high doses or for long periods are not known. At least one manufacturer advises limiting doses of supplemental DHEA to 10 mg or less per day and taking it no more than 2 weeks or 3 weeks per month.
Most of the human research for DHEA has involved oral doses (capsules, tablets, or liquids), However, as a hormone, DHEA may disintegrate in stomach acid, limiting the usefulness of oral forms. Several studies have shown that a topical dosage form, such as a cream or a gel, which is absorbed directly into the body results in higher blood levels of DHEA than oral dosage forms.
Commonly suggested oral doses of DHEA include:
| Addison's disease | 20 mg to 50 mg per day |
| Persons 65 years of age or older | 25mg to 50mg per day |
| Erectile dysfunction | 50mg per day |
| Depression | 30mg to 90mg per day |
| Lupus | 50mg to 200mg per day (only under a doctor's supervision) |
Topically, about 1/4 teaspoon of 10% DHEA cream or gel may be rubbed into the skin once a day or twice a day.
Summary
A great deal of scientific research is being done to test the usefulness of DHEA for treating AIDS, Alzheimer's disease, depression, and a number of other conditions. It has shown enough effectiveness to be recommended for approval by the FDA as a prescription to treat systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), but it has not been proven effective in treating other conditions or slowing the process of aging.
Risks
DHEA is converted in the body to estrogens and androgens--hormones that influence sexual characteristics and reproduction. Its use is not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women, and for individuals with hormone-dependent conditions such as breast cancer or prostate cancer. Individuals under the age of 30 years and anyone with liver conditions should also avoid taking DHEA.
Individuals with diabetes or mood disorders should be extremely careful if they use DHEA. They should talk with their doctors before starting to take DHEA and they should stop taking it if problems develop.
Side Effects
Major side effects of DHEA can include:
- Decreased HDL cholesterol
- Depression or overexcitement
- High blood pressure
- Insulin sensitivity changes
- Liver dysfunction
Less severe side effects may include:
- Abdominal pain
- Acne
- Deepened voice in women
- Insomnia
- Menstrual changes
Interactions
DHEA can interfere with the way the body uses some prescription drugs. A health professional should be consulted before DHEA is started by individuals who take any prescription medications, particularly the following types of drugs:
- Antipsychotics
- Breast cancer therapy
- Corticosteroids
- Drugs for insomnia
- Hormone replacement therapies
- Insulin
Last Revised September 5, 2007
Note: The above information is not intended to replace the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not meant to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you.
In general, herbal products are not subject to review or approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not required to be standardized, meaning that the amounts of active ingredients or contaminants they contain may vary between brands or between different batches of the same brand. Not all of the risks, side effects, or interactions associated with the use of herbal products are known because few reliable studies of their use in humans have been done.
This information is provided for your education only. Please share this information with your healthcare provider and be sure that you talk to your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and non-prescription medicines you take before you begin to use any herbal product.
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Should I take it? 
