DHEA
Dehydroepiandrosterone — Adrenal Precursor Hormone
What is DHEA?
DHEA is the most abundant steroid hormone in the human body and serves as a precursor to both testosterone and estrogen. Produced by the adrenal glands, DHEA peaks in the mid-20s and declines approximately 80-90% by age 70 — one of the most dramatic hormonal declines of aging. DHEA and its sulfate form (DHEAS) are widely used as anti-aging supplements and are available OTC in the United States.
DHEA converts to androstenedione in peripheral tissues, which then converts to either testosterone (via 17-beta-HSD) or estradiol (via aromatase) depending on tissue type and individual enzyme activity. In the brain, DHEA acts directly as a neurosteroid, modulating GABA-A, NMDA, and sigma-1 receptors. It also has direct effects on endothelial function, immune modulation, and insulin sensitivity that are independent of its conversion to sex hormones.
Research Evidence
Strong evidence for DHEA supplementation in adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease) to restore DHEAS levels and improve quality of life, mood, and sexual function in women.
Clinical trials show DHEA supplementation in older adults improves bone density, body composition, sexual function, and mood. Effects on testosterone are modest and variable.
DHEA's neurosteroid activity in the brain modulates mood, reduces anxiety, and improves cognitive function in studies of older adults with low DHEA levels.
Evidence grades: Gold = RCT human data · Silver = consistent animal/human data · Bronze = limited or preliminary
Dosing Protocols
Reconstitution Guide
This compound does not require reconstitution — it is available as a pre-mixed injectable, oil-based solution, or oral formulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does DHEA increase testosterone?
In men, DHEA supplementation produces modest testosterone increases — typically 10-30% at standard doses. This is not equivalent to TRT, which produces much larger testosterone elevations. DHEA's conversion to testosterone depends on individual enzyme activity and varies significantly between people. Women show more consistent responses due to lower baseline androgen levels.
Is DHEA safe to take long-term?
At doses of 25-100mg/day, DHEA is generally considered safe based on available trial data (up to several years). Long-term safety data beyond 2 years is limited. The main concerns are androgenic side effects in women (acne, hair loss) and possible estrogen elevation in men through aromatization. Monitor hormone levels with blood tests.
References
- [1]Baulieu EE, Thomas G, Legrain S, et al. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), DHEA sulfate, and aging: contribution of the DHEAge Study. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 2000;97(8):4279-4284.
- [2]Labrie F, Belanger A, Belanger P, et al. Metabolism of DHEA in postmenopausal women following percutaneous administration. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol. 2007;103(2):178-188.
This profile was prepared using AI-assisted research synthesis. Citations are provided where applicable — verify with primary sources before clinical application.
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