How Safe Is Dhea For Women?

Dehydroepiandrosterone, or DHEA, is a naturally occurring steroid hormone that is produced in both men and women by the adrenal glands and brain, and in the gonads in men. It is the most abundant steroid in the human body. According to the book "Anabolic Primer," DHEA is a powerful and abundant precursor to testosterone and may have a broad range of positive biological effects in both men and women, including treatments for depression, memory, physical performance, reproduction, cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes and longevity. In women, DHEA may have several key benefits but also side effects as well. Consult your physician before using a supplement that promotes DHEA production, or a prescription drug containing DHEA.

Performance Effects In Women

According to a 2010 study published in the "Journal of the American Geriatrics Society," researchers determined that DHEA supplementation combined with exercise promotes both muscle strength and function in older women with no apparent short-term side effects. DHEA follows a similar metabolic pathway that testosterone does but is found in much higher amounts in women than testosterone, so DHEA supplementation may be a viable alternative to testosterone therapy, particularly in older adults. The researchers in the study suggest that more research be conducted in this field to better understand the long-term effects of DHEA use.

Health Effects in Women

According to the United States National Library of Medicine, DHEA is possibly effective for the treatment of schizophrenia, particularly in women. DHEA also can be used to treat the appearance of wrinkly skin, improves the symptoms of lupus and may offer a protective effect in women against bone degeneration diseases, such as osteoporosis. DHEA may also increase bone density in young women with eating disorders.

Potential Side Effects

Androgenic side effects, similar to the side effects of testosterone therapy, may occur as a result of DHEA use. Mild side effects typically include the appearance of acne, hair loss, deepening of the voice and hirsutism, or excessive hair growth, particularly in women. Other side effects of DHEA use may include upset stomach, high blood pressure and an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease, although the National Library of Medicine states that DHEA is possibly safe when used under the guidance of a physician for just a few months.

Other Considerations

Long-term DHEA use or abusing DHEA in any way may increase your risk for developing potentially serious organ failure. If you suffer from liver disease, heart disease, diabetes, depression, high cholesterol or diseases related to elevated estrogen levels, DHEA use may make these conditions worse. DHEA may also have adverse reactions with certain medications that are used to treat high estrogen levels, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, chronic inflammatory diseases such as arthritis, and diabetes.