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Hormone

7-Keto DHEA

7-Keto DHEA is a metabolite of the steroid hormone DHEA that the body forms naturally.

Also listed as 7-ketoDHEA, 7-keto, 7keto, DHEA

Stress & MoodWeight ManagementCognitionMen's Hormones

What it is studied for

The strongest rated effects first. Bars show the size of the effect, the letter grades the evidence, and each rating lists the studies behind it.

Cortisol stressStress & MoodModerateBNo linked study
MetabolismWeight ManagementModerateBNo linked study
Weight lossWeight ManagementModerateBNo linked study
Chronic StressStress & MoodSmallCNo linked study
Mental EnergyCognitionNo effectFNo linked study
Testosterone SupportMen's HormonesNo effectFNo linked study
Every rating with its studiesGrouped by health goal, with the publications behind each rating

What is 7-keto-DHEA?

7-keto-DHEA is a metabolite of the steroid hormone DHEA. Researchers have proposed increased heat production and altered local cortisol activity as possible mechanisms, rather than established benefits for stress or weight control. 1

Why people take it

Energy25.4%
Weight Management23.5%
Longevity14.9%
Cognition12.4%
Fitness7.3%
Immune Support4.9%

SuppCo community snapshot, 2026-09-28. Reasons for use are not evidence that it works.

Questions people ask

Does it reliably raise testosterone?

The oral safety study found no meaningful hormone changes; a small skin-application study found lower testosterone. These findings do not establish a testosterone-raising benefit. 2 3

Does a higher metabolic rate guarantee weight loss?

No. The metabolic trial measured short treatment periods, not sustained weight control. 4

Is long-term daily use established as safe?

The oral safety trial only reached its highest dose for 28 days. 2

Is it permitted in tested sport?

No. WADA lists it as prohibited both in and out of competition. 5

Sources