Dehydroepiandrosterone, or DHEA, is a hormone produced by your adrenal glands, which are small glands located near your kidneys. Your body uses DHEA to produce the male sex hormones, androgens, and the female sex hormones, estrogens. DHEA supplements are synthetic forms of DHEA that are often used to increase DHEA levels in an effort to prevent or treat certain conditions. The Food and Drug Administration does not regulate the claims of DHEA supplements.
Common Uses
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, in women who have lupus, DHEA supplements may reduce the frequency of flare-ups, increase bone mass and boost mental function. Although it may improve quality of life, however, DHEA supplementation does not affect prognosis.
DHEA supplements may also reduce symptoms of adrenal insufficiency, a condition characterized by an underproduction of adrenal hormones, including DHEA. DHEA supplements have also shown promising results for people with depression. Supplementation with DHEA may improve mood and overall sense of well-being, although more research is necessary.
Manufacture
Most DHEA supplements are made from a substance called diosgenin, which is extracted from a species of wild yams called Dioscorea villosa. Once extracted from the yams, diosgenin is converted into DHEA in a laboratory and then placed into capsules, tablets, chewing gums or skin creams. DHEA is also available as a liquid that you place directly underneath your tongue.
Dosage
The effects of DHEA on children and younger adults have not been thoroughly studied, so DHEA supplements are not recommended for anyone under the age of 40. Specific dosages depend on your condition, but general recommendations are 50 mg per day for men and 25 mg per day for women. Some female conditions, such as adrenal insufficiency and anorexia, may benefit from 50 mg per day.
Precautions
If you are taking a DHEA supplement, have regular blood work done every 6 months to monitor your hormone levels. Because DHEA increases the levels of hormones in your body, theoretically it may increase your risk of hormone-related cancers, such as breast cancer, ovarian cancer and testicular cancer. If you have a history of these cancers, you should not take DHEA. High doses of DHEA may lead to liver toxicity, so make sure to stay within recommended dosages.
DHEA may interfere with the action of certain medications, such as those used in HIV treatment and sleep disorders. If you are on any medication, you should consult your doctor before beginning any DHEA supplementation.
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