DHEA Summary

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is the most abundant steroid hormone in primates, which is predominantly synthesized in the adrenal cortex.

A characteristic curve of growth and decline of its synthesis during life was observed, together with the corresponding formation of its sulphate ester (DHEAS).

High levels of plasma circulating DHEA are suggested as a marker of human longevity

various pathophysiological conditions lead to a decreased DHEA level, including adrenal insufficiency, severe systemic diseases, acute stress, and anorexia.

More recent studies have established the importance of DHEA in the central nervous system (CNS).

A specific intranuclear receptor for DHEA has not yet been identified; however, highly specific membrane receptors have been detected in endothelial cells, the heart, kidney, liver, and the brain.

Research shows that DHEA and DHEAS, as well as their metabolites, have a wide range of effects on numerous organs and organ systems, which places them in the group of potential pharmacological agents useful in various clinical entities.

Their action as neurosteroids is especially interesting due to potential neuroprotective, pro-cognitive, anxiolytic, and antidepressant effects.

Evidence from clinical studies supports the use of DHEA in hypoadrenal individuals and in treating depression and associated cognitive disorders.

Summary of Polish Menopause and Andropause Society (2)

We concluded, that currently available clinical trials and meta-analyses indicate:

DHEA supplementation is effective in women with adrenal insufficiency and chronically treated with exogenous glucocorticoids, postmenopausal women with low bone mineral density and/or osteoporosis, premenopausal women with sexual disorders and low libido, and in women with vulvovaginal atrophy due to menopause or genitourinary syndrome of menopause.

Currently available clinical trials also suggest that DHEA supplementation is probably effective in postmenopausal women with hypoactive sexual disorders, infertile women with diminished ovarian reserve, women suffering from depression and anxiety, and women with obesity and insulin resistance. No serious adverse effects have been reported.

Supplementation does not adversely alter cholesterol levels (3)

Overall, supplementation with DHEA did not change circulating values of TC, LDL-C and TG, whereas it may decrease HDL-C levels. Further long-term RCTs are required to investigate the effects of DHEA particularly on major adverse cardiac events.

References

(1) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36121077/

(2) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33030737/

(3) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32675010/