DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone, is a naturally occurring, or endogenous, hormone that is secreted by the adrenal gland. It is a precursor to the male and female sex hormones testosterone and estrogen, respectively. It is available as a supplement in both capsule and gel formulations. According to MedlinePlus, "There is sufficient evidence supporting the use of DHEA in the treatment of adrenal insufficiency, depression, induction of labor, and systemic lupus erythematosus."
Benefits
According to MedlinePlus, the results of clinical trials have shown that DHEA is possibly useful in the treatment of schizophrenia, obesity, depression, Crohn's disease, cholesterol plaques in the arteries--also known as hardening of the arteries--and infertility. In addition, DHEA gel, which is applied to the skin, may improve the appearance of aging skin.
Potential Benefits
Evidence regarding the benefits of DHEA use in the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome, HIV/AIDS, menopausal disorders, myonic dystrophy, septicemia and memory problems is mixed, at best, according to MayoClinic.com, and though topical application of DHEA gel may be helpful in the treatment of low-grade cervical lesions, more evidence is needed.
Ineffective Uses
According to MayoClinic.com, as of 2010, clinical evidence does not support the use of DHEA in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, although some experts disagree. Clinical evidence also shows that DHEA is likely ineffective in the treatment of cocaine withdrawal, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren's syndrome and postmenopausal fibromyalgia, as well as being ineffective in increasing muscle mass.
Warning
According to MedlinePlus, DHEA gel side effects include headache, nasal congestion, fatigue, acne, and rapid or irregular heartbeats. In addition, women may suffer emotional changes, insomnia and abnormal periods. MedlinePlus advises not to use DHEA gel for anyone with a history of abnormal heart rhythms, blood clots and a history of liver disease.
Considerations
DHEA is currently sold as a dietary supplement and, as such, is not subject to stringent regulation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. As a result, capsules or gel formulations of DHEA may contain more than the label amount, less than the label amount or no DHEA at all. "There is no guarantee of purity or safety of products, and effects may vary," according to MayoClinic.coom.
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