DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone)

by MedlinePlus

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.

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.

Synonyms

5-androsten-3 β-ol-17-one, Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, DHEA-S, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), Prasterone.

Combination products/tradenames (examples): Born Again's DHEA Eyelift Serum, DHEA Men's Formula, DHEA with Antioxidants 25mg, DHEA with Bioperine 50mg.

Note: DHEA can be synthesized in a laboratory usingWild 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.

Wild yamsynonyms: Atlantic yam, barbasco, China root, colic root, devil's bones, dioscorea, Dioscorea composita, Dioscorea floribunda, Dioscorea macrostachya, Dioscorea mexicana, Dioscorea villosa , dioscoreae, Mexican yam, natural DHEA, phystoestrogen, rheumatism root, wild Mexican yam, yam, yuma.

Evidence

These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.

Uses based on scientific evidence

Adrenal insufficiency

Several studies suggest that DHEA may improve well-being, quality of life, exercise capacity, sex drive, and hormone levels in people with insufficient adrenal function (Addison's disease). These studies have been small, and better research is needed to provide more definitive answers. Adrenal insufficiency is a serious medical condition and should be treated under the supervision of a qualified health care professional.

Atherosclerosis (cholesterol plaques in the arteries)/cardiovascular health

Initial studies report possible benefits of DHEA supplementation in patients with cholesterol plaques ("hardening") in their arteries. However, better quality research is necessary before a clear conclusion can be drawn. Other therapies are more proven in this area, and patients with high cholesterol, atherosclerosis, or heart disease should discuss treatment options with a primary healthcare professional.

Bone density

The ability of DHEA to increase bone density is under investigation. Effects are not clear at this time.

Cervical dysplasia

Initial research reports that the use of intravaginal DHEA may be safe, and may promote regression of low-grade cervical lesions. However, further study is necessary in this area before a firm conclusion can be drawn. Patients should not substitute the use of DHEA for more established therapies, and should discuss management options and follow-up with a primary healthcare professional or gynecologist.

Chronic fatigue syndrome

The scientific evidence remains unclear regarding the effects of DHEA supplementation in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome. Better research is necessary before a clear conclusion can be drawn.

Cognitive function

Studies of the effects of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) on cognition have produced complex and inconsistent results.

Critical illness

Unclear scientific evidence exists surrounding the safety or effectiveness of DHEA supplementation in critically ill patients. At this time, it is recommended that severe illness in the intensive care unit be treated with more proven therapies.

Crohn's disease

Initial research reports that DHEA supplements are safe for short-term use in patients with Crohn's disease. Preliminary research suggests possible beneficial effects, although further research is necessary before a clear conclusion can be drawn.

Depression

Results of studies on the use of DHEA supplements in depression do not agree with each other, with some results suggesting benefits, and others reporting no effects. Better research is necessary before a clear conclusion can be drawn.

Heart failure

There is conflicting scientific evidence regarding the use of DHEA supplements in patients with heart failure or diminished ejection fraction. Other therapies are more proven in this area, and patients with heart failure or other types of heart disease should discuss treatment options with a cardiologist.

HIV/AIDS

Although some studies suggest that DHEA supplementation may be beneficial in patents with HIV, results from different studies do not agree with each other. Most research in this area is not well designed or reported. There is currently not enough scientific evidence to recommend DHEA for this condition, and other therapies are more proven in this area.

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