DHEA
Also known as: Dehydroepiandrosterone
An adrenal prohormone that the body converts into testosterone and estrogen. Available over the counter as a supplement in the US; still a hormone precursor — use with medical guidance.
Last updated
Mechanism of Action
DHEA and its sulfate (DHEA-S) are produced by the adrenal glands and act as precursors that peripheral tissues convert into androgens and estrogens. Levels peak in early adulthood and decline with age; supplementation aims to restore the precursor pool, though downstream conversion and clinical benefit vary considerably between individuals.
- Half-life
- Short (hours; DHEA-S circulates longer)
- Administration Routes
- Oral
- Research Status
- Clinical
Reported Benefits
- Precursor support for testosterone and estrogen
- Studied for age-related hormonal decline, mood, and bone/adrenal support (evidence mixed)
Potential Side Effects
- Acne, oily skin, hair changes
- Unpredictable rises in estrogen or androgens
- Mood changes; banned in most competitive sport (WADA)
Common Dosing
Sold OTC at widely varying doses. Because it converts to potent hormones, use the lowest effective dose with bloodwork and medical guidance rather than assuming 'supplement' means risk-free.
The dosing information above is aggregated from research literature and anecdotal community reports for educational purposes only. It is not a recommendation, prescription, or medical advice. Peptides are sold as research chemicals only and are not intended for human use.
Contraindications
- Hormone-sensitive cancers (prostate, breast)
- Pregnancy
- Use with medical guidance if already on hormone therapy
- View
Dehydroepiandrosterone replacement in women with adrenal insufficiency
1999
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DHEA in elderly women and DHEA or testosterone in elderly men
2006
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Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), DHEA sulfate, and aging: contribution of the DHEAge Study to a sociobiomedical issue
2000
- View
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA): hypes and hopes
2014