7-KETO-DHEA

non-nutrient/non-botanical7-ketodehydroepiandrosterone

What is it

7-keto-DHEA (3-acetyl-7-oxo-dehydroepiandrosterone, also known as 7-oxo-DHEA) is a naturally occurring metabolite of DHEA. Unlike DHEA itself, 7-keto-DHEA cannot be converted into testosterone, estrogen, or other sex steroid hormones, which makes it appealing as a supplement for people seeking metabolic effects without androgenic or estrogenic activity.

How it works

7-keto-DHEA is produced when DHEA undergoes 7-alpha hydroxylation and oxidation. In the body, it cannot be converted back into DHEA or its downstream sex hormones. Proposed mechanisms for its supplement effects include modest increases in resting metabolic rate, possibly through induction of thermogenic enzymes in the liver. It may also have effects on cortisol and immune function based on small studies. Most of the marketing centers on weight management, with a few small clinical trials reporting accelerated weight loss when combined with a calorie-restricted diet and exercise. Effect sizes are modest. Other claims (memory, immune support, anti-aging) lack robust clinical evidence.

Evidence for 4 uses

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Weight loss / body fat reduction

Grade C

Moderate evidence

Small randomized trials (mostly funded by manufacturers) have reported greater weight loss with 7-keto-DHEA combined with calorie restriction and exercise compared with placebo plus the same diet and exercise. Effect sizes are modest and independent replication is limited.

Thyroid hormone / metabolic rate

Grade C

Moderate evidence

Some studies have reported small increases in T3 (active thyroid hormone) and resting metabolic rate. Clinical significance is uncertain.

Memory / cognitive function

Grade F

Limited evidence

Animal studies have suggested memory effects, but human clinical evidence is essentially absent.

Immune function

Grade F

Limited evidence

Some laboratory studies have shown effects on immune cell function, but clinical evidence in humans is lacking.

1 commercial form

7-keto-DHEA (3-acetyl-7-oxo-DHEA)

Better absorbed than 7-oxo-DHEA without acetate

The most common commercial form. The acetate version is the one studied in most clinical trials.

Dosage

Studies have used 100-200 mg per day in divided doses (50-100 mg twice daily). Supplement labels often list 100 mg per serving. There is no formal recommended intake.

When and how to take it

Most studies have used twice-daily dosing (morning and afternoon). Take with meals to minimize gastrointestinal effects. Avoid evening doses if you experience sleep disturbance. Effects on body weight (if any) typically develop over weeks of combined diet and exercise.

Safety

Generally well tolerated at typical doses in short-term studies. Possible side effects include nausea, dizziness, and rare changes in liver enzymes. Unlike DHEA, 7-keto-DHEA does not appear to affect testosterone or estrogen levels, so androgenic and estrogenic side effects are less expected. Long-term safety data are limited.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data. People with thyroid disorders, liver disease, or those taking thyroid medications should consult a clinician before use. People with hormone-sensitive conditions are less restricted than with DHEA itself, but caution remains reasonable.

Interactions

Limited interaction data. May theoretically interact with thyroid medications (due to potential effects on thyroid hormone levels reported in some studies), corticosteroids, and diabetes medications. No clearly established interactions with prescription medications.

Frequently asked questions

How is 7-keto-DHEA different from DHEA?⌄

7-keto-DHEA cannot be converted into testosterone, estrogen, or other sex hormones, while DHEA can. This makes 7-keto attractive for people who want metabolic effects without androgenic or estrogenic side effects.

Does 7-keto-DHEA really help with weight loss?⌄

Some small studies show modest additional weight loss when combined with diet and exercise. Effects are not large, and independent replication is limited.

Is 7-keto-DHEA legal?⌄

Yes, it is sold as a dietary supplement in the US and many other countries. It is permitted in some sports settings where DHEA itself is banned, but check your specific governing body's rules.

Will 7-keto-DHEA affect my hormones?⌄

It does not significantly affect testosterone or estrogen levels. It may slightly affect thyroid hormone (T3); long-term effects are not well characterized.

Is 7-keto-DHEA safe?⌄

Short-term studies report good tolerability. Long-term safety data are limited.

References

  • 7-Keto-DHEA (Wikidata) — Wikidata link
  • 7-Keto-DHEA (ChEBI 183808) — ChEBI link

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Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.