DHEA is a synthetic hormone that may be helpful in relieving symptoms of various conditions like menopause, lupus and osteoporosis. Although your body naturally makes this substance, this supplement should be used under a doctor's supervision to avoid negative effects. Individuals with hyperthyroidism may have altered DHEA levels, so before using any supplements, talk with your doctor about your thyroid condition and whether DHEA is appropriate.
DHEA
Dehydroepiandrosterone, known as DHEA, is a hormone that the body naturally produces. This hormone is then converted into male and female sex hormones called estrogens and androgens. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, DHEA levels peak around the age of 25 and then slowly decline over time. Although more research needs to be done in all areas, DHEA may help alleviate symptoms of depression, reduce bone loss in osteoporosis and improve libido. The typical dosage for adult males is 50 mg daily, and for women it is 25 mg daily, reports the University of Maryland. Talk with your doctor before using DHEA to make sure it's safe and appropriate for you to consume.
Hyperthyroidism
The thyroid gland makes a hormone called thyroxine, which helps control metabolism. If your thyroid produces too much thyroxine, you have a condition called hyperthyroidism. Excess thyroxine speeds up your metabolism and can cause symptoms like a rapid heartbeat, a tremor in your hands, fatigue, increased appetite and weight loss. These symptoms aren't unique to hyperthyroidism, so your doctor will likely do blood tests to accurately diagnose hyperthyroidism. Treatments for this condition include medications and in some cases, a thyroidectomy, or removal of most of the thyroid gland.
DHEA and Hyperthyroidism
According to a 2000 study in "Clinical Chemistry," subjects with hyperthyroidism had significantly higher levels of DHEA sulfate, a metabolite of DHEA, than controls or hypothyroid subjects. DHEA levels were not significantly different. The researchers correlated the serum levels of thyroid hormone with the levels of DHEA. Individuals with hypothyroidism may have lower levels of DHEA and should talk with their doctors to determine whether supplementation is necessary.
Considerations
Before taking DHEA, talk with your doctor about whether it's safe for you to do so, especially if you have hypothyroidism. Too much DHEA can cause adverse side effects like an abundance of testosterone in females, high blood pressure, increased insulin resistance and liver toxicity, states the University of Maryland. Individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers like breast-, ovarian- or testicular cancers, shouldn't take DHEA because it is a synthetic hormone. Tell your doctor about any medications you are taking to avoid interactions.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; DHEA; Steven Ehrlich, N.M.D.; June 2009
- MayoClinic.com; Hyperthyroidism; December 2010
- "Clinical Chemistry"; Serum Dehydroepiandrosterone, Dehydroepiandosterone Sulfate, and Pregnenolone Sulfate Concentrations in Patients With Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism; N. Taqawa, et al.; 2000
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