Pregnenolone is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, which sit atop the kidneys. It is a precursor to other steroid hormones such as DHEA, which is responsible for producing male and female sex hormones, estrogen and testosterone. It also manufactures mineralocorticoids, which are responsible for regulating electrolyte balance and progesterone, a female hormone responsible for regulating the menstrual cycle. Pregnenolone is available as a supplement and marketed for such conditions as arthritis and depression.
History
According to the American Cancer Society, pregnenolone interest rose during the 1940s, prompting animal and human studies. Initially, this supplement showed promise as the recommended treatment for arthritis, but subsequent studies were conflicting. Research moved toward discovering whether pregnenolone supplementation improved memory and reduced stress, but this proved inconclusive as well. At this stage, interest in pregnenolone decreased. Pregnenolone interest was revived in the 1980s. Research revolved around its effects on conditions such as multiple sclerosis; however, results were once again inconclusive.
Function
Pregnenolone is considered a mother hormone, because it is necessary to produce other hormones, making it important to hormonal balance. Pregnenolone levels decline with age, and a lack of pregnenolone can cause uncomfortable symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. Evidence is lacking to suggest pregnenolone supplements function the same way in the body as natural pregnenolone.
Health Claims
Pregnenolone advocates claim it can treat arthritis, cancer and multiple sclerosis, but according to the American Cancer Society, available research does not support claims that pregnenolone helps treat any of those conditions or that it improves memory or alertness and reduces stress. The society asserts that there is no standard dose, and the Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated it for effectiveness.
Scientific Data
According to a 2010 study published by "Psychiatry Research," pregnenolone improved mood in patients diagnosed with bipolar disorder, in both the manic and depressive phases of their condition. The study goes on to indicate that no change was seen in memory or cognitive skills. Patients were given 100 mg of pregnenolone each day for eight weeks. The study indicated this dose was well tolerated. It concluded pregnenolone is a possible treatment for improving mood related to bipolar disorder, but more research is necessary.
Safety
Little is known about the long-term effects of pregnenolone supplementation. Common side effects include insomnia, irritation, agitation and changes in mood and personality. In rare cases, pregnenolone supplements cause irregular heartbeat. Consult your doctor before taking this or any supplement.
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