DHEA

hormoneCervonoyl ethanolamide

What is it

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a steroid hormone produced primarily by the adrenal glands and, in smaller amounts, by the gonads and brain. It serves as a precursor for the body's synthesis of both androgens (testosterone) and estrogens. Blood levels peak in the mid-20s and decline progressively with age, prompting interest in supplementation for age-related conditions.

How it works

DHEA is converted in peripheral tissues to androstenedione and then to testosterone or estradiol, with the balance depending on tissue-specific enzyme activity and individual physiology. Women typically experience greater increases in androgens with DHEA supplementation, while men may see modest changes in both androgens and estrogens. DHEA also acts independently of these hormones through GABA, NMDA, and sigma-1 receptors, with effects on mood and neurosteroid signaling. Oral DHEA is rapidly absorbed and undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism. Blood levels rise within hours and return toward baseline within 24 hours. The most consistent clinical use is in adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease) and in women with hypoactive sexual desire after menopause; other proposed benefits remain controversial.

Evidence for 6 uses

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

Adrenal insufficiency / Addison's disease

Grade B

Good evidence

DHEA replacement in adrenal insufficiency has been shown in randomized trials to improve mood, well-being, and sometimes sexual function. This is the most clinically supported use.

Sexual function in postmenopausal women

Grade B

Good evidence

Vaginal DHEA (prasterone) is FDA-approved for menopausal dyspareunia (painful intercourse). Oral DHEA has shown more mixed effects on sexual function. Vaginal use is generally preferred for this specific indication.

Depression

Grade C

Moderate evidence

Small trials have shown modest antidepressant effects of DHEA, particularly in midlife and older adults with mild to moderate depression. Effects are inconsistent and limited.

Bone density

Grade C

Moderate evidence

Some studies in older adults have shown small improvements in bone mineral density with long-term DHEA use, especially in women. Effects on fracture risk are unproven.

Body composition / strength

Grade D

Mixed evidence

DHEA has not consistently improved body composition or muscle strength in trials. Most well-designed studies have shown no meaningful benefit in healthy older adults.

Anti-aging / longevity

Grade D

Mixed evidence

Despite popular marketing as an anti-aging hormone, there is no good evidence that DHEA supplementation extends life or prevents age-related diseases in humans.

4 commercial forms

DHEA (oral)

Extensive first-pass metabolism

The most common supplement form. Doses typically 10-50 mg per day.

DHEA (micronized)

Slightly improved absorption

Small particle size may improve bioavailability marginally.

Vaginal DHEA (prasterone)

Local action; minimal systemic absorption

FDA-approved for menopausal vulvovaginal symptoms. Different formulation from oral supplements.

7-Keto DHEA

Different metabolite; not converted to sex hormones

A DHEA metabolite that does not convert to testosterone or estrogen; covered in a separate entry.

Dosage

Doses range from 10 to 50 mg per day, taken once in the morning. Women typically need lower doses (10-25 mg) than men (25-50 mg) due to greater androgenic response. Use only with periodic monitoring of hormone levels (DHEA-S, testosterone, estradiol) when used long-term. Higher doses (100+ mg) are sometimes used for specific medical conditions under supervision.

When and how to take it

Take in the morning to align with the body's natural DHEA rhythm. Effects on hormone levels develop over weeks. Avoid evening doses (no clear benefit, possible sleep effects). Periodic monitoring of DHEA-S, testosterone, estradiol, and clinical signs is recommended.

Safety

Side effects can include acne, oily skin, hair loss or thinning, facial hair growth in women, voice changes, irritability, mood swings, and breast tenderness or enlargement (gynecomastia in men). Concerns exist about long-term effects on hormone-sensitive cancers (breast, prostate) and cardiovascular health, with limited definitive data. DHEA is banned by many sports organizations.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding. People with or at high risk for hormone-sensitive cancers (breast, prostate, ovarian), liver disease, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), high cholesterol, blood clotting disorders, or psychiatric conditions should not use DHEA without medical supervision. Avoid in men with prostate enlargement. Banned by many sports organizations.

Interactions

DHEA may interact with hormonal medications (oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, tamoxifen, aromatase inhibitors), insulin and diabetes medications, anticoagulants, and psychiatric medications (especially those affecting neurosteroids). It may also affect liver enzymes that metabolize many drugs.

Frequently asked questions

Will DHEA boost my testosterone?⌄

It can raise testosterone modestly, especially in women whose baseline is much lower. In men with normal testosterone, effects are usually small.

Is DHEA safe to take long-term?⌄

Long-term safety data are limited, and concerns about hormone-sensitive cancers and cardiovascular effects remain. Use under medical supervision with periodic hormone monitoring.

Can DHEA help with menopausal symptoms?⌄

Vaginal DHEA (prasterone) is FDA-approved for painful intercourse in menopausal women. Oral DHEA shows more limited effects on hot flashes and other symptoms.

Is DHEA banned in sports?⌄

Yes. DHEA is on the WADA prohibited list and is banned by most major sports organizations as an anabolic agent.

Why does DHEA cause acne and hair changes?⌄

DHEA converts to androgens in peripheral tissues, which can stimulate oil glands and affect hair growth patterns. These effects are more pronounced in women and at higher doses.

References

  • DHEA (Wikidata) — Wikidata link
  • DHEA (PubChem CID 5881) — PubChem link
  • DHEA (ChEBI 89608) — ChEBI link
  • NIH ODS - DHEA — NIH Office of Dietary Supplements link

Track DHEA with Pilora

Set up dose reminders, check interactions, and join the community in the Pilora iPhone app.

Coming to App Store

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.