DHEA

What is DHEA?

DHEA also known as Dehydroepiandrosterone is a naturally occurring hormone found in the body. It is produced in the adrenal gland, gonads, and brain. DHEA serves as precursor to male and female sex hormones.

DHEA levels in the body begin to decrease after age 30, and are reported to be low in some people with anorexia, end-stage kidney disease, type 2 diabetes (non-insulin dependent diabetes), AIDS, adrenal insufficiency, and in the critically ill. DHEA levels may also be depleted by a number of drugs, including insulin, corticosteroids, and opiates.

DHEA has also been touted to increase the immune system's function and restore mental ability. It has also been studied for the treatment of conditions such as Addison's disease and Alzheimer's disease. It has also been found to be useful in the following conditions:

• Adrenal insufficiency - DHEA may improve well-being, quality of life, exercise capacity, sex drive, and hormone levels in people with insufficient adrenal function (Addison's disease).
• Depression 
• Obesity 
• Systemic lupus erythematosus 
• Aging - DHEA may offer some benefit to individuals in terms of aging. 
• Alzheimer's disease 
• Bone density 
• Cardiovascular disease - Initial studies report possible benefits of DHEA supplementation in patients with cholesterol plaques ("hardening") in their arteries. 
• Cervical cancer 
• Chronic fatigue syndrome and other immune conditions.

Side Effects and Warnings of DHEA

Few side effects are reported when DHEA supplements are taken by mouth in recommended doses. Side effects may include nausea, abdominal discomfort, fatigue, nasal congestion, headache, acne, or rapid/irregular heartbeats.

In women, the most common side effects are abnormal menses, emotional changes, headache, and insomnia. Individuals with a history of abnormal heart rhythms, or blood clots, and those with a history of liver disease should avoid DHEA supplements.

Because DHEA is a hormone related to other male and female hormones, there may be side effects related to its hormonal activities. This is one of the main reasons you should always seek medical advice before you use a DHEA based supplement.

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