Roll Call

DHEA — answers to dehydroepiandrosterone

Synthetic

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A hormone produced naturally by the adrenal glands that serves as a precursor the body can convert into other hormones, including testosterone and estrogen. As a supplement it is typically synthesized from plant sources.

Why it’s used

Taken by some for age-related hormone decline, mood, libido, or as part of adrenal or bone health regimens.

What the evidence is for

modest effects on mood or sexual function in select populations with low baseline DHEA.

What the evidence says

According to the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, research on DHEA supplementation is mixed and often limited by small or short trials. Some studies suggest modest effects on mood or sexual function in specific populations, such as people with low DHEA due to age or adrenal insufficiency, but effects in healthy adults are inconsistent, and long-term safety data are limited.

Dose studied

25–50 mg — common daily dose used in clinical trials.

Context

Trials have commonly used doses of about 25 to 50 milligrams per day, often in older adults or people with documented low DHEA levels, and results do not necessarily generalize to younger or healthy populations.

Educational information, not medical or safety advice. Consult a professional for allergies or medical concerns.