INDICATIONS FOR USE

DHEA is used to treat adrenal insufficiency, improve sexual function, and enhance overall well-being. It is also utilized off-label for anti-aging purposes, improving bone density, and treating depression or fatigue in postmenopausal women.

EVIDENCE RATING

✦✦ : Off-label therapy or non-FDA-approved medication with early but compelling human efficacy and safety data.

ROUTE OF ADMINISTRATION

• Oral tablets or capsules.

• Creams or suppositories

COMMON INITIAL DOSING REGIMENS

• Initial doses range from 25–50 mg daily, taken in the morning to mimic natural DHEA production. Lower doses (10–25 mg) are often used for anti-aging purposes.

MECHANISM OF ACTION

• DHEA serves as a precursor to androgens and estrogens, converting to testosterone or estradiol in peripheral tissues. It exerts mild androgenic and estrogenic effects, influencing mood, energy, and overall hormonal balance.

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Endocrine: Acne, oily skin, and hair thinning due to androgenic effects.

• Metabolic: Mild weight gain or fluid retention.

• Reproductive: Changes in menstrual cycle patterns in premenopausal women.

• Rare: High doses may suppress endogenous hormone production or increase the risk of hormone-sensitive cancers.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

• Absolute: Known hormone-sensitive cancers, such as breast or ovarian cancer.

• Relative: Use with caution in women with PCOS, severe liver dysfunction, or significant androgen sensitivity.

LEARN MORE

• Evidence hound? Review our comprehensive listing of PubMed direct links to original research related to this medication.