DHEA-Q Plus

Dehydroepiandrosterone (Micronized) (75mg) + Coenzyme Q10 (75mg)
Price: ₹1100 - ₹1400 for 10 softgels
Mfr: Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. | Form: Softgel Capsules

📋 Clinical Overview

A fixed-dose combination of a micronized adrenal androgen precursor (DHEA) and a vital mitochondrial coenzyme (CoQ10). DHEA serves as a prohormone for sex steroids, while CoQ10 is essential for cellular energy production and acts as an antioxidant. This combination is primarily used as a nutraceutical supplement to address age-related decline, support energy metabolism, and improve general well-being, particularly in the context of fatigue and suboptimal hormone levels. The micronization of DHEA enhances its dissolution and absorption profile.

💊 Dosage & Administration

Adult: One capsule daily, or as directed by a healthcare practitioner. Typically taken with a meal containing fats to enhance CoQ10 absorption.

Note: Take orally with a main meal (lunch or dinner) that contains dietary fats (e.g., oil, nuts, avocado) to significantly improve the bioavailability of CoQ10. Swallow whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew.

⚠️ Contraindications

  • Known hypersensitivity to DHEA, CoQ10, or any formulation excipients
  • History of hormone-sensitive cancers (e.g., breast, prostate, ovarian, endometrial)
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding (due to lack of safety data and hormonal effects of DHEA)

🔬 Mechanism of Action

DHEA is an endogenous steroid hormone secreted by the adrenal cortex. It acts as a precursor for the synthesis of androgens (testosterone) and estrogens (estradiol) in peripheral tissues, exerting its effects indirectly through these sex steroids. CoQ10 is a fat-soluble, vitamin-like compound located in the inner mitochondrial membrane. It is an essential component of the electron transport chain (Complex I, II, and III) for ATP synthesis and also functions as a potent antioxidant, protecting cell membranes and LDL cholesterol from oxidative damage. The combination aims to support hormonal balance and cellular energy production simultaneously.

🤕 Side Effects

  • Mild gastrointestinal upset (nausea, heartburn, diarrhea)
  • Headache
  • Insomnia or restlessness (if taken late in the day)
  • Oily skin or acne (androgenic effect of DHEA)
  • Facial hair growth in women (hirsutism)

🤰 Special Populations

Pregnancy: CONTRANDICATED. DHEA is a hormone precursor and may cause virilization of the female fetus. Safety not established.

Driving: Unlikely to affect ability. However, if insomnia or dizziness occurs, caution is advised.

🔄 Drug Interactions

Warfarin / AcenocoumarolCoQ10 may have structural similarity to vitamin K and potentially reduce anticoagulant effect, increasing thrombotic risk.Major
Statins (Atorvastatin, Simvastatin)Statins deplete endogenous CoQ10. Supplementation may reduce statin-associated myopathy. However, DHEA may counteract cholesterol-lowering effects.Moderate
Antipsychotics (e.g., Risperidone)DHEA may antagonize dopamine receptors, potentially reducing efficacy.Moderate
Antidepressants (SSRIs/SNRIs)Theoretical risk of serotonin syndrome or mood destabilization; monitor.Moderate
Insulin, Oral HypoglycemicsDHEA may improve insulin sensitivity, potentially enhancing hypoglycemic effect.Moderate
Tamoxifen, Aromatase InhibitorsDHEA can be converted to estrogens, potentially antagonizing therapy in hormone-sensitive breast cancer. CONTRAINDICATED.Major
CorticosteroidsMay alter adrenal axis function; monitor.Moderate

🔁 Alternatives to DHEA-Q Plus

Same composition (Dehydroepiandrosterone (Micronized) (75mg) + Coenzyme Q10 (75mg)), different brands:

Revitalize D Vitalong-D D-Q10 Forte