Dehydroepiandrosterone
Indications
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone made by the adrenal glands that the body converts into male and female sex hormones. As a medicine or supplement it is mainly used by fertility specialists for women with low ovarian reserve (few eggs remaining) who are preparing for IVF, and sometimes for women with adrenal insufficiency or low sex drive after menopause. Evidence for many of these uses is limited or mixed, and it should be taken only under medical supervision.
How It Works
DHEA is changed in the body into androgens (such as testosterone) and oestrogens. In the ovaries, higher androgen levels are thought to support the growth of egg-containing follicles, which may improve the response to fertility treatment in some women.
Dosage and Administration
This is a hormone, so take it only as prescribed by your doctor. For fertility use it is usually taken by mouth daily for a few months before IVF, with the exact dose and duration set by the specialist. Swallow the tablet or capsule with water. Do not use it for bodybuilding or anti-ageing without medical advice.
Interactions
- Oestrogens, testosterone, hormonal contraceptives and other hormone treatments: effects may add up.
- Anastrozole, Letrozole and Tamoxifen: DHEA may work against them.
- Antidepressants and Lithium: possible mood changes, including mania.
- Insulin and medicines for diabetes: blood sugar control may change.
- Medicines broken down by the liver enzyme CYP3A4 (such as Midazolam): levels may change.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have or have had a hormone-sensitive cancer (breast, ovarian, uterine or prostate), polycystic ovary syndrome with high androgen levels, serious liver disease, or are allergic to it. Not for children.
Side Effects
- Acne, oily skin, hair loss on the scalp.
- Unwanted facial or body hair and deepening of the voice in women.
- Irregular periods, breast tenderness.
- Stomach upset, tiredness, insomnia, mood changes.
- Changes in cholesterol levels.
Get urgent medical help if you have chest pain, a fast or irregular heartbeat, severe mood changes or thoughts of self-harm, yellow skin or eyes, or swelling of the face and throat.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Stop DHEA once pregnancy is confirmed unless your specialist says otherwise. It is not recommended during breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
Tell your doctor if you have heart disease, high cholesterol, diabetes, liver disease, depression, bipolar disorder or a history of blood clots. Your doctor may check hormone levels during treatment. Long-term safety is not well known. Supplement products can vary in strength, so use a quality product recommended by your doctor.
Overdose
Taking too much may increase hormone-related side effects such as acne, hair growth and mood changes. Seek medical advice if a large amount has been taken.
Therapeutic Class
Adrenal androgen precursor (hormone).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.
All brands of Dehydroepiandrosterone