Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a naturally occurring adrenal steroid hormone and a prohormone for androgens and estrogens. The micronized formulation (75mg) enhances dissolution and bioavailability. It is used primarily for adrenal insufficiency and age-related decline in DHEA levels, aiming to restore physiological levels and alleviate associated symptoms like fatigue, low libido, and cognitive fog. Its use is nuanced, requiring careful patient selection and monitoring.
Adult: 75mg once daily, preferably in the morning to mimic natural circadian rhythm. Initiate at 25-50mg daily in sensitive individuals and titrate based on clinical response and serum DHEA-S levels (target: mid-normal range for age).
Note: Administer orally with or without food. Taking with a small amount of fat may enhance absorption. Tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. Consistency in daily timing is important.
DHEA serves as a crucial precursor in steroidogenesis. It is converted peripherally into potent androgens (testosterone, dihydrotestosterone) and estrogens (estradiol, estrone) via tissue-specific enzymes like 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, and aromatase. Its effects are largely mediated through these downstream hormones binding to androgen and estrogen receptors.
Pregnancy: CONTRANDICATED. DHEA is a precursor to androgens and estrogens which can cause virilization of a female fetus or other developmental abnormalities. Pregnancy must be ruled out before initiation in women of childbearing potential.
Driving: Generally safe. However, patients should be cautioned that initial therapy may rarely cause dizziness or fatigue, which could impair ability to drive or operate machinery.
| Testosterone / Anabolic Steroids | Additive androgenic effects, increasing risk of side effects like acne, hair loss, aggression, and hepatotoxicity. | Major |
| Estrogen Therapy (HRT) | Additive estrogenic effects. May require dose adjustment of estrogen therapy. | Moderate |
| Corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone) | DHEA may counteract some catabolic effects of corticosteroids. Pharmacodynamic interaction. | Moderate |
| Anticonvulsants (e.g., Carbamazepine, Phenytoin) | May increase hepatic metabolism of DHEA, reducing its efficacy. | Moderate |
| Insulin / Oral Hypoglycemics | DHEA may have mild insulin-sensitizing effects. Monitor blood glucose levels as adjustment of diabetic medication may be needed. | Moderate |
| Tamoxifen | Theoretical interaction as both modulate estrogenic pathways. Clinical significance unclear. | Minor |
Same composition (Dehydroepiandrosterone (Micronized) (75mg)), different brands: