Dehydroepiandrosterone, or DHEA, is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal gland. It converts to male and female sex hormones, the androgens and estrogens, and other hormones as well. A synthetic form of DHEA is available as an over-the-counter supplement, and is purported to have numerous health benefits. Research is lacking to confirm any of these benefits, according to the American Cancer Society, or ACS. DHEA is not indicated for preventing or treating an enlarged prostate.
Potential
DHEA supplements are claimed to protect against heart disease, cancer, osteoporosis, diabetes, Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease, as noted by the ACS. Supporters also promote DHEA as effective for treating lupus, colitis and depression, and for anti-aging properties and sex drive enhancement.
Research
High-quality clinical research on the effect of DHEA supplements for improving health is scant, and results have been conflicting, according to the ACS. Some evidence indicates that DHEA may be effective for treating certain hormonal deficiencies and autoimmune disorders, as well as problems of mood and memory in elderly people, says the ACS. Some professional sports organizations prohibit the use of DHEA because it may have effects similar to anabolic steroids, or steroids that build muscle. One condition DHEA should not be used for is an enlarged prostate.
Identification
An enlarged prostate is technically called benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, and this noncancerous condition is very common, according to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse, which adds that over half of men in their sixties have symptoms of BPH. Symptoms may include trouble urinating, such as an interrupted and weak stream, along with urinary urgency, leakage and more frequent urination.
Considerations
BPH may be caused by excessive levels of the androgen hormone dihydrotestosterone, known as DHT, according to American Fitness Professional and Associates, or AFPA. While medications and natural supplements for treating BPH are generally used to lower DHT, DHEA raises levels of this hormone, as well as the androgen hormones testosterone and androstenedione. This can increase the risk of developing BPH, and can also worsen prostate swelling in men with the condition, according to the AFPA.
Warning
Men with prostate cancer or at an increased risk of this disease also may not be able to safely take DHEA, according to the ACS, which adds that some studies have found that DHEA increases the growth progression of hormone-related cancer cells, including prostate cancer.
