DHEA supplementation may improve adrenal insufficiency, bone density, and mood, but it carries risks related to hormone-sensitive conditions.
DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) is a naturally occurring hormone produced by the adrenal glands, gonads, and brain. It serves as a precursor to several other hormones, including testosterone and estrogen. DHEA supplementation is used for a variety of purposes, including addressing adrenal insufficiency, improving bone density, treating vaginal atrophy (prescription form), and potentially improving cognitive function and mood. However, it is important to be aware of potential side effects, including acne, hirsutism, voice deepening, menstrual irregularities, and potential risks related to hormone-sensitive conditions. Dosage should be individualized and monitored by a healthcare professional due to its potential hormonal effects.
Key Information
Inside Body Harmful Score
Common Dosage
25-200mg daily, often divided into multiple doses. Dosage varies greatly depending on individual needs and health conditions; starting with a low dose and gradually increasing is often recommended under medical supervision.
Source Type
natural
Production Process
DHEA is primarily produced in the adrenal glands, but also in the gonads and brain. Supplements are typically manufactured synthetically from diosgenin, a steroid sapogenin found in wild yams, though the body cannot directly convert diosgenin to DHEA.
Use Type
Inside BodyPotential Benefits
Caffeine improves cognitive function by blocking adenosine receptors, increasing neuronal activity and enhancing alertness, attention, and memory. This results in faster reaction times and better sustained focus.
Aids in improving symptoms associated with adrenal insufficiency by providing hormonal precursors. This may lead to increased energy and improved overall well-being.
DHEA supplementation may improve bone mineral density, especially in older adults and particularly in women, potentially reducing osteoporosis risk. This is thought to be due to DHEA's conversion into estrogen and testosterone, which are important for bone health.
Vaginal DHEA is a prescription medication for postmenopausal women that treats vaginal atrophy by increasing local estrogen production, improving vaginal tissue thickness and reducing discomfort. It helps alleviate symptoms like dryness and painful intercourse.
DHEA supplementation may offer antidepressant effects, particularly in individuals with lower DHEA levels, potentially by influencing neurotransmitter activity. The effects are thought to be linked to the modulation of GABAergic and glutamatergic neurotransmission.
DHEA may help reduce disease activity and improve quality of life in individuals with SLE by modulating the immune system and reducing inflammation. It potentially alleviates fatigue and musculoskeletal pain.
Possible Side Effects
Mood changes involve fluctuations in emotional state, ranging from irritability to euphoria, impacting daily life and well-being. These changes may be caused by physiological or psychological factors, necessitating careful evaluation.
Increased sebum production causes acne breakouts and oily skin. This can range from mild to severe and affects the skin's appearance and texture.
Hirsutism is the excessive growth of dark or coarse hair in women in a male-like pattern. It can cause psychological distress and impact self-esteem.
Voice deepening is a side effect that lowers vocal pitch, particularly noticeable in women, due to changes in the vocal cords. This may be a permanent effect.
Menstrual irregularities involve disruptions to the normal menstrual cycle, affecting the frequency, duration, or heaviness of bleeding. These disruptions can manifest as absent, infrequent, heavy, or painful periods.
There is a theoretical risk of increased hormone-sensitive cancers (e.g., prostate, breast) due to potential hormonal activity, although data is not conclusive. This risk necessitates careful consideration and further investigation.
Liver problems, including potential liver damage, are a rare but serious side effect. Symptoms can include jaundice, abdominal pain, and fatigue, potentially leading to liver failure.
Scientific Evidence
PubMed, Cochrane Library, Mayo Clinic, National Institutes of Health (NIH). Search terms: "DHEA benefits", "DHEA side effects", "DHEA supplementation", "DHEA clinical trials"
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