DHEA Drug Side Effects

Short for dehydroepiandrosterone, DHEA is a steroid produced by the adrenal glands, located on top of your kidneys. Your body converts DHEA into sex hormones, mainly testosterone and estrogen, and other hormones, including progesterone and cortisol. The production of DHEA reaches peak levels at about age 25 and gradually declines thereafter. Thus, DHEA has been touted as a possible anti-aging hormone. People turn to DHEA supplements to replace the DHEA that has been lost to aging. Significant side effects are associated with its use.

Cancer Risk

You may have an increased risk for developing hormone-sensitive cancers when you supplement with DHEA. Estrogen hormone levels may be negatively affected, which may be associated with the development of breast cancer cells, especially in women, reports the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University. For men, DHEA may enlarge breasts and increase risk for prostate cancer. Most of the claims made about DHEA's carcinogenic activities are based on results from animal, rather than human, studies.

Signs of Masculinization

When excess doses are taken, DHEA may increase the production of the male hormone testosterone, so women must be aware of the risk of developing androgenic or male-like side effects, warns the Women's Health Program at Monash University. These include excess hair growth on the face, legs and back; loss of hair on the head; deepening of the voice; weight gain around the waist; and acne.

Liver Disorders

More research is needed, but tentative results show that a 50-mg daily dose of DHEA is generally an effective dose. Any dose over this amount may cause potentially life-threatening complications, such as liver problems. High doses of DHEA are considered toxic to liver cells, which may increase hepatic size and change hepatic texture and chemistry. Patients with prior liver disease must not take DHEA.