DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone, is a hormone naturally produced by the adrenal glands, which sit just above the kidneys. While scientists haven’t fully unraveled all its functions, they recognize it as a precursor to key sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen. This means your body converts DHEA into these active hormones. Production peaks in your mid-20s and typically declines with age, mirroring the drop in testosterone and estrogen levels. DHEA supplements are laboratory-made versions available as tablets, capsules, creams, gels, or powders, designed to boost these hormone levels. This has led to numerous claims about their health benefits, though evidence often falls short.
Doctors primarily recommend DHEA supplements for specific medical conditions. According to Sasha Hakman, MD, a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist at HRC Fertility in Beverly Hills, California, they are usually advised for women with adrenal insufficiency. This condition involves inadequate production of cortisol and aldosterone, a hormone that helps regulate blood pressure. “Supplementation is particularly helpful in this case, if there are persistent symptoms such as low libido, fatigue, or depression, despite adequate treatment for the disease,” Hakman says. Beyond this, people use DHEA supplements for a wide range of potential benefits, from anti-aging to athletic performance, but more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness.
One common claim is that DHEA supplements can combat aging, given that DHEA levels decrease over time. Some small studies have reported positive anti-aging effects, but an equal number have found no impact. Overall, DHEA supplements don’t appear to influence the aging process. Additionally, long-term effects remain unclear, with concerns that prolonged use could be harmful. For weight loss, a variant called 7-Keto is marketed to reduce body fat and boost metabolism, aiming to burn calories more efficiently. However, most studies show little effect on weight loss or metabolic increase.
Athletes sometimes turn to DHEA supplements due to claims they enhance muscle strength and performance, as DHEA acts as a prohormone that can raise steroid hormone levels like testosterone. Yet, evidence supporting this is minimal. Its use is banned by major sports organizations, including the National Football League, Major League Baseball, and the National Collegiate Athletic Association. Risks associated with such supplements include permanent growth stunting, aggressive behavior (often called “roid rage”), mood swings, higher blood pressure, liver issues, and cholesterol changes. Since DHEA increases testosterone and estrogen, women may experience side effects like facial hair growth and voice deepening, while men might face breast enlargement, shrunken testicles, or reduced sperm production.
In terms of health conditions, DHEA supplements show some promise for easing mild to moderate depression. A small, six-week study by researchers from the National Institute of Mental Health found that DHEA supplementation helped relieve depression in some middle-aged individuals. It may also benefit aging skin. However, evidence is unclear for conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, low bone density, heart disease, cervical cancer, myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome, Crohn’s disease, infertility, rheumatoid arthritis, schizophrenia, and sexual dysfunction. There’s little support for claims regarding fibromyalgia, memory improvement, muscle strength enhancement, or immune system stimulation.
Safety is a major concern with DHEA supplements. More research is needed to determine their overall safety. The FDA has approved only one form of DHEA for menopause symptoms, and dietary supplements containing DHEA are not regulated by the FDA. This means they might include unlisted ingredients that could be unsafe or ineffective. Always consult a doctor before taking DHEA supplements. Potential side effects include oily skin, acne, skin thickening, hair loss, upset stomach, high blood pressure, menstrual cycle changes, fatigue, nasal congestion, worsened mental health conditions, headache, rapid or irregular heartbeat, insomnia, and lower HDL (“good” cholesterol) levels. These often result from increased testosterone and estrogen levels, and experts warn about unknown long-term effects of elevated hormones.
Additional risks include a potential increased risk of cancers such as ovarian, breast, and prostate cancer. DHEA also interacts with various medications, reducing their effectiveness. Avoid DHEA if you take estrogen, testosterone, certain seizure or bipolar disorder medications (like carbamazepine, lithium, and valproic acid), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), or triazolam (Halcion). Pregnant or nursing individuals should not use DHEA supplements. Recommended dosages generally allow up to 50 milligrams per day for up to two years, but only under medical supervision.
If considering DHEA supplements, talk to your doctor first. Many claims involve serious medical conditions that require professional evaluation and treatment. A healthcare provider can assess whether DHEA is appropriate for you, considering its side effects and risks. In summary, DHEA is a natural hormone that declines with age, and supplements aim to raise its levels. While people tout benefits for mood, energy, and sexual health, evidence is limited. These supplements lack FDA approval for most uses, so medical guidance is essential.
Common Questions About DHEA Supplements
How does DHEA affect the menstrual cycle? Research is sparse, but experts believe DHEA supplements don’t significantly alter menstrual patterns. However, high doses might affect hormone levels, potentially causing irregular periods in women with typical cycles.
Is it possible to overdose on DHEA? Yes, excessive intake can worsen risks and side effects.
How long does it take DHEA to work? Due to limited research, it’s hard to pinpoint, depending on factors like individual body, purpose, dosage, and frequency. For menopause symptoms, results might appear in four weeks, while for adrenal insufficiency, it could take up to six months.
