Although it is naturally produced in the body, DHEA has also been synthetically produced as a supplement. This substance has been touted to have numerous benefits and uses, although more research needs to be done to establish definitive evidence for these purposes. Before consuming DHEA supplements, consult a health care professional to ensure it is safe for you to do so.
Background
DHEA, also known as dehydroepiandrosterone, is a hormone that naturally occurs in the human body, from the adrenal gland. DHEA is a precursor to both androgens and estrogens, the male and female sex hormones. DHEA levels typically start to decrease after the age of 30 and are lower in individuals with anorexia, type 2 diabetes, end-stage kidney disease and AIDS. Medications can also impact levels of this hormone. As a supplement, DHEA is synthetically made from chemicals in wild yams and soy.
Side Effects
DHEA is a steroid hormone, and in large doses it can cause adverse side effects like aggressiveness, irritability, insomnia and the growth of facial hair on women. It can also cause acne, irregular heartbeat, scalp hair loss and oily skin. There are no studies on long-term use of DHEA, and it is not known whether it is safe to use for long periods of time. This supplement may cause tumor growth in breast, uterine and prostate cancer, since these cancers are hormone-sensitive, according to the American Cancer Society. DHEA may also interact with medications, including tamoxifen and insulin.
Benefits
DHEA is reported to have several benefits for some individuals, although more research needs to be completed. The Mayo Clinic states that DHEA may help individuals with Addison's disease, a condition involving insufficient functioning of the adrenal glands. Individuals with this condition may find improvements in their sex drive, overall well-being, exercise capacity and hormone levels. This supplement is also being researched for possible uses with systemic lupus erythematosus, improving bone density, depression and obesity. Individuals with these conditions should be under the care of health care professionals and should not take DHEA without their permission.
Considerations
DHEA is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, so though capsules typically come in dosages of 25 to 200 mg, there is no guarantee that you are actually getting the amount stated. Other forms of DHEA include topical and intravenous preparations, but safety and effectiveness have not been proven.
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