Application and Special precautions of DHEA

DHEA is a hormone that is naturally made by the body. DHEA works in the body to make other male and female sex hormones within the body.
People commonly use DHEA for slowing signs of aging, improve physical performance, and many other conditions, but there is not good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Application

The effectiveness ratings for DHEA are as follows:

Likely effective for...

Thinning vaginal tissue (vaginal atrophy). The walls of the vagina can become thinner after menopause. This can cause pain during sex. Using vaginal inserts containing DHEA can reduce pain during sex by up to 15% in women after menopause. A prescription DHEA product is available for this condition.

Possibly effective for...

Aging skin. Some research shows that taking DHEA by mouth or applying it to the skin might improve skin appearance in women after menopause and in people over the age of 60 years.

Depression. Some research shows that taking 30-500 mg of DHEA by mouth daily improves symptoms of depression. Lower doses do not seem to help. Some experts recommend DHEA for depression if more common medications don't work.

How does it work?

DHEA is a "hormone" naturally made in the body by the adrenal glands near the kidneys and by the liver. DHEA helps to make male and female sex hormones within the body.

DHEA levels seem to go down as people get older. DHEA levels seem to be lower in people with depression, postmenopausal women and many other conditions.

Are there safety concerns?

DHEA is POSSIBLY SAFE when taken by mouth, applied to the skin, and used inside the vagina appropriately. DHEA has been taken by mouth safely for up to 2 years. DHEA cream has been safely applied to the skin for up to 1 year. DHEA containing vaginal inserts have been safely used for up to 3 months.

The most common side effects of DHEA are generally mild and can include acne and upset stomach. Acne occurs more in women taking DHEA. Some women can have changes in menstrual cycle, abnormal hair growth, and a deeper voice after taking DHEA. Breast pain or growth can occur in men taking DHEA.

Special precautions & warnings

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: DHEA is POSSIBLY UNSAFE when taken during pregnancy or breast-feeding. It can cause higher than normal levels of a male hormone called androgen. This might be harmful to the baby. Do not use DHEA if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Enlarged Prostate: DHEA might cause difficulty in urinating for people with an enlarged prostate, known as benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH).
Diabetes: DHEA can affect how insulin works in the body. If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar carefully if you are taking DHEA.

Hormone-sensitive conditions such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids: DHEA is a hormone that can affect how estrogen works in the body. If you have any condition that might be made worse by estrogen, do not use DHEA.

High cholesterol: DHEA might lower "good cholesterol". If you have high cholesterol or heart disease, talk with your healthcare provider before taking DHEA.

Liver problems: DHEA might make liver problems worse. Do not use DHEA if you have liver problems.

Depression and mood disorders: DHEA might cause excitability, impulsiveness, and irritability in people with mood disorders. If you have a mood disorder, be sure to discuss DHEA with your healthcare provider before you start taking it. Also, pay close attention to any changes in how you feel.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Taking DHEA might make this condition worse. Don't use DHEA if you have PCOS.

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