DHEA
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DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is an endogenous hormone (made in the
human body), and secreted by the adrenal gland. DHEA serves as precursor to male
and female sex hormones (androgens and estrogens). DHEA levels in the body begin
to decrease after age 30, and are reported to be low in some people with
anorexia, end-stage kidney disease, type 2 diabetes (non-insulin dependent
diabetes), AIDS, adrenal insufficiency, and in the critically ill. DHEA levels
may also be depleted by a number of drugs, including insulin, corticosteroids,
opiates, and danazol.
There is sufficient evidence supporting the use of DHEA in the treatment of
adrenal insufficiency, depression, induction of labor, and systemic lupus
erythematosus.
No studies on the long-term effects of DHEA have been conducted. DHEA
can cause higher than normal levels of androgens and estrogens in the body, and
theoretically may increase the risk of prostate, breast, ovarian, and other
hormone-sensitive cancers. Therefore, it is not recommended for regular use
without supervision by a licensed health professional.
5-androsten-3 β-ol-17-one, C19 steroid, dehydroepiandrosterone,
dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, DHA, DHAS, DHEA-enanthate, DHEA-FA, DHEA-S,
DHEAS, DS, 7-KETO DHE, 7-oxo-DHEA, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), the mother
steroid, prasterone.
Note: DHEA can be synthesized in a laboratory using wild yam extract.
However, it is believed that wild yam cannot be converted into DHEA by the body.
Therefore, information that markets wild yam as a "natural DHEA" may be
inaccurate.
Dosing: The below doses are based on scientific research, publications,
traditional use, or expert opinion. Many herbs and supplements have not been
thoroughly tested, and safety and effectiveness may not be proven. Brands may be
made differently, with variable ingredients, even within the same brand. The
below doses may not apply to all products. You should read product labels, and
discuss doses with a qualified healthcare provider before starting therapy.
Adults (18 years and older): DHEA is available as capsules, tablets and
injections. Commonly used doses range from 25-200 milligrams daily. Higher doses
of 200-500 milligrams per day have been studied for depression in HIV/AIDS.
Daily use of DHEA has been studied up to one year in the available scientific
studies.
Topical (on the skin) and intravenous injections (into the veins) have also
been studied, but safety and effectiveness has not been proven. A 5-10% cream
containing DHEA has been used up to four weeks.
Children (younger than 18 years): The dosing and safety of DHEA are not well
studied in children. In theory, DHEA could interfere with normal hormone balance
and growth in children.
Safety: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not
strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of strength,
purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You should always read
product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs,
herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider
before starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you
experience side effects.
Side Effects and Warnings: Few side effects are reported when
DHEA supplements are taken by mouth in recommended doses. Side effects may
include fatigue, nasal congestion, headache, acne, or rapid/irregular
heartbeats. In women, the most common side effects are abnormal menses,
emotional changes, headache, and insomnia. Individuals with a history of
abnormal heart rhythms, blood clots or hypercoagulability, and those with a
history of liver disease, should avoid DHEA supplements.
Because DHEA is a hormone related to other male and
female hormones, there may be side effects related to its hormonal activities.
For example, masculinization may occur in women, including acne, greasy skin,
facial hair, hair loss, increased sweating, weight gain around the waist, or a
deeper voice. Likewise, men may develop more prominent breasts (gynecomastia),
breast tenderness, increased blood pressure, testicular wasting, or increased
aggressiveness. Other hormonal-related side effects may include increased blood
sugar levels, insulin resistance, altered cholesterol levels, altered thyroid
hormone levels, and altered adrenal function. Caution is advised in patients
with diabetes or hyperglycemia, high cholesterol, thyroid disorders, or other
endocrine (hormonal) abnormalities. Serum glucose, cholesterol and thyroid
levels may need to be monitored by a healthcare professional, and medication
adjustments may be necessary.
In theory, DHEA may increase the risk of developing prostate,
breast, or ovarian cancer. DHEA may contribute to tamoxifen resistance in breast
cancer. Other side effects may include insomnia, agitation, delusions, mania,
nervousness, irritability, or psychosis.
High DHEA levels have been correlated with Cushing's syndrome,
which may be caused by excessive supplementation.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: DHEA is not recommended during
pregnancy or breastfeeding. Because DHEA is a hormone, it may be unsafe to the
fetus or nursing infants.
-- DHEA Supplements --
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