Dehydroepiandrosterone is the technical name for the male hormone more commonly known as DHEA. A less scientific name for DHEA is the male power hormone, since it reduces surplus energy consumption in the body through a process that inhibits cortisol production, which is triggered by stress that burns up energy unnecessarily. The effects of DHEA on a 39-year-old male are not significantly different from those on younger men, but since levels of DHEA begin to decline as men age, the effects of taking hormone supplements at age 39 may be more intensely exhibited than when taken at a younger age.
Energy and Cognitive Benefits
Men with higher levels of DHEA tend to possess more energy, physical strength and mental acuity than those with DHEA deficiencies. Other benefits that a 39-year-old man could potentially enjoy by increasing the level of this hormone are reduced levels of memory loss that often occurs with aging and improved cognitive skills.
Cardiovascular Risks
As men enter their 40s, the chances for cardiovascular problems increase. According to Worldhealth.net, the cardiovascular mortality rate and risk of developing cardiovascular disease declines among men with higher levels of DHEA.
Stress
Sciencedaily.com reports that the release of DHEA effectively blocks the release of cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone triggered by stress that results in symptoms such as increased blood pressure and pulse rate. A 39-year-old man taking DHEA could potentially benefit not just by reducing levels of stress, but as a treatment for post-traumatic stress syndrome or depression.
Erectile Dysfunction
While DHEA is not likely to have any effect on the lowering of libido in a 39-year-old man, those already suffering from low levels may see improvement in erectile dysfunction with the addition of supplement levels. A study conducted at the University of Vienna in 1999 concluded that between 30 and 40 percent of impotent men could reverse their conditions with 50 mg of DHEA daily.
Therapy and Dosage
DHEA therapy for a 39-year-old man would be essentially the same as for a 59-year-old man. The goal would be to approximate the concentration of the hormone that is found in a 20-year-old male. DHEA is available in several different forms, including an ointment. Tablets are more common, containing between 20 and 100 mg. The average patient is prescribed the same 50 mg per day as were those who participated in the Austrian impotence study.
Negative Side Effects
Negative side effects of taking DHEA can potentially put the 39-year-old man at risk for developing prominent breasts as part of a disorder known as gynecomastia. Other possible side effects include shrinking testicles and increased aggression.
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