Test Your Knowledge

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a chemical substance that forms the building blocks for ongoing, lifetime production of sex hormones (testosterone and estrogen) in the body. It is also available as a nutritional supplement in the form of a synthetic steroid (sex) hormone called prasterone.

Although there is no clear scientific evidence supporting the use of DHEA supplements for any purpose, the substance has been heavily marketed for athletic performance enhancement (muscle-building and fat-fighting) and anti-aging. It is banned as a steroid hormone by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and several professional sports leagues.

While there is no proven benefit of DHEA, there is some evidence of risk for certain populations. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), individuals with cancer or a family history of cancer (especially hormone responsive cancers such as prostate or breast cancer) are urged to use caution when taking DHEA because supplements may increase the risk of prostate or breast cancer. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (a division of the National Institutes of Health) recommends against using DHEA supplements.

In addition, research shows DHEA supplements may have serious potential side effects, including liver enlargement, rapid heart beat, fatigue, headache and blood clots. There can also be side effects related to hormonal activity. Women may experience masculinization (e.g., deeper voices, facial hair, increased sweating) as well as acne, oily skin, hair loss and abdominal weight gain. In males, there can be testicular shrinking (testicular atrophy), increased aggressiveness, breast enlargement and breast tenderness.

Several studies have examined DHEA’s usefulness in treating a variety of conditions, including Addison’s disease (adrenal insufficiency), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), depression, erectile dysfunction, obesity and Crohn’s disease (ulcerative colitis). Research shows the most effective use of DHEA may be in relieving symptoms associated with adrenal insufficiency in women, but more research is needed.

DHEA is made from plant chemicals extracted from wild yams or from soybeans. However, research indicates that synthetically-produced DHEA may not be metabolized in the body in the same manner as natural DHEA.

DHEA supplements can be legally purchased over the counter without prescriptions. They are not medications and are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for quality or effectiveness. That means there can be a wide variation in the amount and quality of DHEA contained in each product and therefore a significant difference in results.

Anyone considering taking DHEA supplementation is urged to first consult a physician. DHEA can interact with and affect prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs taken for other conditions by diluting or strengthening their effects. Herbs and other supplements can also be affected by DHEA.

Those with existing medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, heart disease) are also urged to seek advice from their physician before taking the supplement. Studies have shown DHEA may cause complications (e.g., uncontrollable glucose levels, arrhythmia) or interfere with medications prescribed to treat those conditions.