DHEA is a steroid hormone precursor produced by the adrenal glands — levels peak at age 25 and decline approximately 2% per year. Our research shows moderate evidence for adrenal insufficiency treatment and vaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women, but limited evidence for anti-aging, exercise performance, or testosterone boosting in healthy adults. It's a hormone — not a vitamin — and inappropriate supplementation can cause significant hormonal disruption.
DHEA converts to estrogen; additive estrogenic effects
Additive androgenic effects
DHEA converts to estrogen — directly opposes anti-estrogen cancer therapy
DHEA may affect insulin sensitivity; variable effects
DHEA is metabolized via CYP3A4; competition possible
DHEA may increase lithium sensitivity
PROHIBITED — DHEA is on the WADA Prohibited List (anabolic agents)
Arlt W. DHEA replacement therapy. *Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab.* 2006.
(2006). PMID: 16670164
Nair KS et al. DHEA in elderly women and DHEA or testosterone in elderly men. *N Engl J Med.* 2006.
(2006). PMID: 16571093
Labrie F et al. Intravaginal dehydroepiandrosterone (prasterone) for vaginal atrophy.
Rutkowski K et al. Dehydroepiandrosterone: hypes and hopes.
Reviewed by the Scan Dose Research Team and Clinical Advisory Board | Last updated: April 2026
Not medical advice. Based on published clinical research and systematic reviews.