A fixed-dose combination supplement containing micronized Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a prohormone precursor to androgens and estrogens, and Folic Acid (Vitamin B9). Micronization enhances DHEA's dissolution and absorption. This combination is primarily used to address age-related decline in DHEA levels and support metabolic, immune, and cognitive functions, with folic acid added to support homocysteine metabolism and methylation processes, which may be synergistic in certain clinical contexts like mood and cardiovascular health.
Adult: One tablet (DHEA 25mg + Folic Acid 1.5mg) once daily, preferably in the morning with or without food. Duration as advised by a healthcare provider.
Note: Swallow whole with a glass of water. Can be taken with food to minimize potential GI upset from folic acid. Avoid taking with antacids or bile acid sequestrants (e.g., cholestyramine) as they may reduce folic acid absorption.
DHEA serves as a precursor for the synthesis of sex steroids (androgens and estrogens) in peripheral tissues, acting as a prohormone. It exerts both direct effects via binding to neurosteroid receptors (e.g., GABA-A, NMDA, sigma-1) and indirect effects via its metabolites. Folic acid is converted to active coenzymes essential for DNA synthesis, repair, methylation, and amino acid metabolism, including the conversion of homocysteine to methionine.
Pregnancy: CONTRANDICATED. DHEA has androgenic properties and may cause virilization of a female fetus. Folic acid at 1.5mg is far above the recommended 400-800 mcg for pregnancy; high doses are not recommended without specific indication (e.g., history of neural tube defects).
Driving: Unlikely to affect driving ability. However, if dizziness, drowsiness, or visual disturbances occur, avoid driving.
| Antiepileptics (Phenobarbital, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Valproate) | Folic acid may reduce serum levels of these drugs, potentially decreasing seizure control. These drugs may also reduce folate levels. | Major |
| Methotrexate | Folic acid may reduce the efficacy of methotrexate in cancer chemotherapy (but is used to reduce toxicity in rheumatoid arthritis dosing). | Major |
| Pyrimethamine | Folic acid may antagonize the antiprotozoal effect in malaria/toxoplasmosis treatment. | Major |
| Tamoxifen, Aromatase Inhibitors | DHEA, by converting to estrogens, may antagonize the effects of these breast cancer therapies. | Major |
| 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (Finasteride, Dutasteride) | May alter the conversion pathway of DHEA metabolites. | Moderate |
| Corticosteroids | May suppress endogenous DHEA production; exogenous DHEA may have additive/synergistic effects. | Moderate |
| Warfarin and other Vitamin K Antagonists | Theoretical interaction; folic acid may affect clotting factors. Monitor INR closely. | Moderate |
| Sulfasalazine | Reduces folate absorption; may necessitate higher folic acid intake. | Moderate |
Same composition (Dehydroepiandrosterone (Micronized) (25mg) + Folic Acid (1.5mg)), different brands: