Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a steroid hormone that is a popular nonprescription oral “dietary supplement” used by men to enhance cognitive function, mood, libido, and athletic performance. Before 1994, DHEA was a prescription medicine. After the passage of the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994, DHEA was reclassified as a nutritional supplement. Although sold over the counter in 25- and 50-mg strengths, DHEA is widely touted to maximize results at doses of 200 mg or higher. DHEA is banned by the International Olympic Committee and the National Collegiate Athletic Association as an anabolic agent. Limited information is available regarding potential harmful effects resulting from its supplemental use.
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