DHEA
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a steroid hormone made mainly by the adrenal glands. The body converts it into sex hormones such as testosterone and estrogens.
Also listed as DEHA, DEAH, DHAE, Pradesterone
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.
A hormone precursor, not an ordinary nutrient
DHEA is produced by the adrenal glands and can be converted into estrogens and androgens. That explains interest in hormonal symptoms, but also why supplements can have hormone-related risks. 1
Why people take it
SuppCo community snapshot, 2026-09-28. Reasons for use are not evidence that it works.
Questions people ask
Is DHEA the same as testosterone?
No. It is a precursor that can contribute to androgen and estrogen production. 1
Does a low DHEAS level prove a need for an anti-aging supplement?
No. In the two-year trial, selecting older adults with low levels did not produce improvements in strength or quality of life. 2
Can oral DHEA replace prescribed vaginal prasterone?
The EU product is a specifically formulated vaginal medicine; its indication does not establish oral substitution. 3
Is specialist use ever considered?
Yes. The adrenal-insufficiency guideline describes a monitored trial in selected symptomatic women, rather than routine use for everyone. 4
Related nutrients
7-Keto DHEASources
- Dehydroepiandrosterone Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
- DHEA in elderly women and DHEA or testosterone in elderly men New England Journal of Medicine, 2006
- Intrarosa: Summary of Product Characteristics European Medicines Agency
- Primary Adrenal Insufficiency Guideline Resources Endocrine Society, 2016
