What Is DHEA?
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a hormone produced primarily by the adrenal glands. It serves as a precursor your body uses to manufacture estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. DHEA levels peak during your mid-20s and gradually decline with age, often reaching less than 20% of peak levels by the time a person reaches their 70s.
Clinical Insight
Because DHEA sits upstream of many other hormones, optimizing DHEA may positively influence multiple systems throughout the body rather than affecting only a single hormone.
Potential Benefits of DHEA Optimization
- Improved mood and reduced depressive symptoms
- Enhanced immune function and antioxidant activity
- Better insulin sensitivity
- Reduced diabetes risk
- Improved bone density
- Reduced osteoporosis risk
- Improved memory and cognitive performance
- Lower abdominal body fat
- Improved lipid metabolism
- Reduced cardiovascular risk
- Reduced fatigue and muscle weakness
- Potential benefit for patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
Important Note
A pharmaceutical form of DHEA (prasterone) has received attention for its potential role in the management of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE).
Who May Benefit?
DHEA may be appropriate for adults over 40, patients with confirmed low DHEA laboratory levels, individuals living with chronic disease, and certain patients with SLE. Because DHEA converts in small amounts to testosterone in women, female patients often notice improvements in energy, vitality, and libido.
Potential Side Effects
The most common side effect is acne. Some patients—particularly women—may also develop unwanted hair growth near the application site.
Who Should Not Use DHEA?
Contraindication
DHEA should not be used by patients with hormone-responsive cancers, including breast, ovarian, uterine, or prostate cancer.
How We Prescribe DHEA
Although DHEA is available over the counter, product quality and potency vary considerably. Many commercial products are sourced internationally, have short half-lives requiring multiple daily doses, and may not contain the amount listed on the label.
"Healthy aging isn't about replacing every hormone—it's about restoring balance where the body can benefit most."
— Dr. Joseph Albano
Learn More
If you'd like to learn whether DHEA optimization may be appropriate for your health goals, schedule a consultation with our team to discuss personalized hormone evaluation and treatment options.