DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) Drug for Aging: Use, Side Effects, Interactions

DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone)

Use:

DHEA or Dehydroepiandrosterone is reputed to have an anti-aging effect.

How It Works:

Adrenal gland steroid hormones' levels drop with age. DHEA or Dehydroepiandrosterone is suppose to increase these levels, as it is a precursor of both female and male hormones.

Side Effects:

DHEA or Dehydroepiandrosterone can cause acne, hair loss, hair growth in women, deepening voice, and increased risk of prostate cancer in men. These effects appear to be irreversible.

Cautions for People:

People should be aware that what is labelled as DHEA or Dehydroepiandrosterone may contain little if any DHEA or Dehydroepiandrosterone. People should also realize that there is no "cure" for aging.

Drug Interactions:

DHEA or Dehydroepiandrosterone can accentuate the effects of male and female hormones.

Further Reading:

Time 1995;Jan23:52
J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1994;78:1360
J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1994;79:1273
Harvard Health Letter 1994;19(9):1

Added to Virtual Drugstore November 1996.

The relevant product monographs must be regarded as the appropriate sources of prescribing information.