DHEA

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a steroid hormone produced primarily by the adrenal glands, with smaller contributions from the brain and testes (in men) or ovaries (in women). In men, DHEA helps the body make both testosterone and estrogen, playing a critical role in maintaining hormonal balance, sexual function, mood, and overall vitality.

DHEA supplements are sometimes used in an attempt to improve testosterone levels, enhance libido, increase energy, and support cognitive and emotional well-being. However, results from these supplements are inconsistent across studies, and the long-term effectiveness and safety of DHEA supplementation remain unclear.

DHEA is available in oral and topical forms.

Anyone considering DHEA supplementation should consult a healthcare provider to evaluate risks, monitor hormone levels, and ensure appropriate use.

DHEA is not approved as a drug in the United States

DHEA is not a drug; it is a supplement

Side effects are usually mild and might include:

• Acne

• Upset stomach

The cost of DHEA varies depending on factors such as brand, quantity, and where you buy it. The average retail price of DHEA is about $14 for a two-month supply of 50-mg tablets.

• Information about DHEA is limited

• Drug interactions: Fulvestrant, CYP3A4 substrates, antidepressant drugs, aromatase inhibitors, anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs, tamoxifen, triazolam, tuberculosis vaccine, estrogens, testosterone

• Information about DHEA is limited

• DHEA is possibly unsafe when used in high doses or long-term. Do not use DHEA in doses higher than 50-100 mg daily or for a long period of time. Using higher doses or using it long-term can increase the risk of serious side effects including cancer

• DHEA can affect how insulin works in the body. If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar carefully if you are taking DHEA

• Hormone-sensitive conditions such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids: DHEA is a hormone that can affect how estrogen works in the body. If you have any condition that might be made worse by estrogen, do not use DHEA

• DHEA might lower high-density lipoprotein (HDL or "good") cholesterol, especially in females. If you have high cholesterol or heart disease, talk with your healthcare provider before taking DHEA

• DHEA might make liver problems worse. Do not use DHEA if you have liver problems

• DHEA might cause excitability, impulsiveness, and irritability in people with mood disorders. If you have a mood disorder, talk to your healthcare provider before taking DHEA

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Taking DHEA might make this condition worse. Don't use DHEA if you have PCOS

• Pregnancy & breastfeeding: DHEA is possibly unsafe when taken during pregnancy or breast-feeding. It can cause higher than normal levels of a male hormone called androgen. This might be harmful to the baby. Do not use DHEA if you are pregnant or breast-feeding

*Information about DHEA is limited. This information was taken, in part, from MedlinePlus's entry on DHEA.