too much dhea side effects

If not used under a doctor's care or if dosed incorrectly, DHEA can cause side effects that include: Abdominal pain Acne Breast tenderness

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What are the side effects of taking DHEA?

• change in sex drive or performance
• headache
• loss of appetite

How long do the side effects of using DHEA last?

This dosage has been safely used for up to two years without severe side effects. However, you should speak with your physician prior to using this supplement. The beneficial effects associated with DHEA may be primarily seen in those with low DHEA levels or certain health conditions.

What does DHEA do for the body?

DHEA is both a natural hormone and popular supplement that can affect the levels of other hormones in your body. It has been studied for its potential to increase bone density, decrease body fat, improve sexual function and correct some hormonal problems.

Does DHEA really work?

Taking a DHEA may help increase quality of life in people with adrenal insufficiency. Research has found that DHEA positively influences mood, subjective health status, and sexual health. A 2013 review of studies found that DHEA supplementation may lead to a small but significant improvement in the body composition of older men.

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Is 100 mg of DHEA too much?

Some women can have changes in menstrual cycle, facial hair growth, and a deeper voice after taking DHEA. DHEA is POSSIBLY UNSAFE when taken by mouth in high doses or long-term. Do not use DHEA in doses higher than 50-100 mg a day or for a long period of time.

Can you have too much DHEA?

Men might develop more breast tissue, high blood pressure, and other problems. Risks. Using high doses of DHEA may not be safe. People who have heart problems, liver disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, thyroid problems, polycystic ovary syndrome, and a history of clotting problems should not use DHEA.

What happens when your DHEA is too high?

Your body needs DHEAS to produce androgens and estrogen. Women who make too much DHEAS may develop PCOS or characteristics like facial hair. Boys with high DHEAS levels may start puberty too soon. DHEAS levels can also affect your sex drive and reproductive health.

What are the symptoms of too much DHEA?

Symptoms of high levels of DHEAS in women and girls may include:Excess body and facial hair growth.Deepening of voice.Menstrual irregularities.Acne.Increased muscularity.Hair loss at the top of the head.

Does DHEA raise estrogen?

DHEA produced a significant rise in androgens levels, whereas HRT did not. Moreover, DHEA alone induced a significantly lower increase in estrogens and beta-endorphin levels and a higher decrease in cortisol levels than HRT. DHEA and HRT also produced a significant similar increase in allopregnanolone levels.

Can high DHEA cause weight gain?

Side Effects May increase the risk of developing prostate, breast, ovarian, uterine, or cervical cancer and malignant melanoma or other hormonally-affected cancers. Hormonal side effects can be significant, including acne, skin changes, excess hair or hair loss, increased sweating, and weight gain.

Can too much DHEA cause anxiety?

Increased salivary DHEA concentrations were associated with more self-reported anxiety symptoms, increased anxiety symptom counts based on clinical interview, and increased probability of an anxiety disorder.

What does DHEA do for females?

Several studies suggest that taking DHEA may help improve mood, fatigue, and well being. In one study, women with this condition who took DHEA supplements reported improved sexuality and sense of well being, including fewer feelings of depression and anxiety. Adrenal insufficiency requires a doctor's care.

Does high DHEA mean high cortisol?

Research on stress suggests that understanding the DHEA-cortisol ratio may be the key to understanding how we respond to stress. Studies indicate that a high DHEA-cortisol ratio (meaning higher DHEA levels than cortisol levels) may reduce the negative impacts of stress.

How much DHEA should a 50 year old man take?

While doses of 10–500 mg have been reported, a common dose is 25–50 mg per day ( 32 , 41 , 42 ). Regarding time frame, a dose of 50 mg per day has been safely used for one year, and 25 mg per day has safely been used for two years.

Does DHEA boost testosterone?

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a steroid hormone available in supplement form that is sometimes used to increase testosterone levels. Produced naturally by the adrenal glands, DHEA is converted by the body into testosterone and other sex hormones.

Can high DHEA cause fatigue?

If a lab test were given during this first stage it could show elevated levels of adrenaline, cortisol, DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone), norepinephrine and insulin. At this point fatigue is mild, some will turn to caffeinated drinks, energy shots, sugary or high carb-oriented foods.

How is DHEA measured?

DHEA: As soon as excess levels of the hormone are present in the body side effects can develop. Dhea is measured by checking dhea-sulfate levels. For your a ... Read More

Can DHEA replace testosterone?

DHEA: For men dhea will not be strong enough to replace testosterone deficiency. However, you are likely low on dhea so taking it will likely benefit you a ... Read More

DHEA has few serious side effects

Already a number of years ago, a worldwide survey of IVF centers revealed that approximately half were supplementing selected patients with dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). The number must be even bigger by now.

DHEA's side effects are mostly temporary and mild

The side effect female patients mention most frequently is actually a positive one: They frequently feel more vigorous (sometimes even a bit more “aggressive”) and experience a better sex-drive, general libido and feeling of better general sexual health in all aspects (for more on this subject, see also the article on DHEA for improved sexual female health in this issue of the VOICE )..

Interactions and contraindications for DHEA

As already mentioned before, since DHEA is a hormone and our bodies make testosterone from DHEA, supplementation with DHEA can also interact with other medications in many different ways. A small portion of DHEA is also converted to estrogen.

Getting the most benefits out of DHEA

These are most of the reasons why CHR strongly recommends that DHEA only be taken under physician supervision. Another reason is that, unfortunately, DHEA is frequently taken incorrectly. For example, DHEA will have hardly any effects if taken only during IVF cycles.

How does DHEA affect men?

DHEA supplementation affects endogenous hormone production. Men experience reduced pituitary function that creates lower sperm counts. A 2007 report in the “Society of Reproductive Medicine” indicated that some men might never regain full pituitary function after taking DHEA supplementation while others will recovery after three to six months. A 2011 report in “Cell Biology International” suggests that women may develop polycystic ovary syndrome, PCOS, after only 15 days of DHEA supplementation. PCOS reduces the frequency of menses and ovulation, creating a hormonal environment similar to menopausal women.

What is DHEA in the brain?

DHEA is a powerful hormone that has the potential to interact with many players in the body. Moreover, the “Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease” reported in April 2011 that both men and women experiencing mild to moderate forms of Alzheimer's actually have elevated levels of DHEA in the brain even if DHEA blood levels are low. High levels of DHEA in the brain directly correlate with cognitive impairment. The impact of DHEA supplementation on cognitive ability requires additional long-term study, however, any form or degree of Alzheimer’s symptoms experienced are irreversible.

Is DHEA a hormone?

DHEA is a powerful hormone that has the potential to interact with many players in the body. The impact of DHEA supplementation on cognitive ability requires additional long-term study, however, any form or degree of Alzheimer’s symptoms experienced are irreversible.

Can DHEA cause side effects?

However, long-term or excessive DHEA use may produce a multitude of irreversible side effects. Importantly, no long-term human studies on the potential adverse effect of DHEA supplementation exist. Consult a physician before starting a DHEA regime.

Does DHEA affect cognitive function?

High levels of DHEA in the brain directly correlate with cognitive impairment. The impact of DHEA supplementation on cognitive ability requires additional long-term study, however, any form or degree of Alzheimer’s symptoms experienced are irreversible.

Can DHEA cause cancer?

Breast, ovarian and prostate cancers are only a few of the notable hormone-dependent cancers that may result from large DHEA doses or chronic use, according to MedlinePlus. Controlled human studies are impossible to complete. However, in May 1998, the “Journal of the National Cancer Institute” published a five-year clinical study on the impact of post-menopausal women taking hormone supplements that included DHEA. Women taking hormone replacement therapy were significantly more likely to develop breast cancer than those taking the placebo. Risk of developing cancer appears to increase with age and women are more likely than men to develop hormone-dependent cancers.

Does triazolam interact with dhea?

Triazolam (Halcion) interacts with DHEA . The body breaks down triazolam (Halcion) to get rid of it. DHEA might decrease how quickly the body breaks down triazolam (Halcion). Taking DHEA along with triazolam (Halcion) might increase the effects and side effects of triazolam (Halcion).

Does DHEA help with COPD?

Early research shows that taking DHEA might improve lung function and walking distance in people with COPD. Cocaine use disorder.

Does DHEA help with muscle loss?

Taking DHEA might decrease weight, fat around the waist, and insulin levels. A group of inherited disorders that cause muscle weakness and muscle loss (muscular dystrophy). Taking DHEA does not seem to improve muscle strength in people with a type of muscular dystrophy called myotonic dystrophy.

Does DHEA lower heart disease risk?

A grouping of symptoms that increase the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and stroke (metabolic syndrome). There is early evidence that DHEA might lower some of the health risks that put overweight adults at risk for heart diseaseand diabetes. Taking DHEA might decrease weight, fat around the waist, and insulin levels.

Does DHEA help with cocaine withdrawal?

Cocaine use disorder. Early research shows that taking DHEA does not seem to improve withdrawal symptoms in people who are addicted to cocaine. A type of inflammatory bowel disease(Crohn disease). Early research shows that taking DHEA might reduce symptoms in people with Crohn disease.

Does Faslodex affect estrogen?

Estrogen-sensitive cancers are cancers that are affected by estrogen levels in the body. Fulvestrant (Faslodex) is used for this type of estrogen cancer. DHEA might increase estrogen in the body and decrease the effectiveness of fulvestrant for treating cancer. Do not take DHEA if you are taking fulvestrant.

Does DHEA help bone strength?

However, other research shows that DHEA does not improve bone strength in postmenopausal patients. Low androgen hormone in men (partial androgen deficiency). Early research shows that taking DHEA might improve mood, fatigue, and joint pain in older males with low androgen hormone levels.

How long does DHEA last?

Depression: 30 mg to 500 mg of DHEA taken by mouth daily for 6 to 8 weeks either alone or together with antidepressant drugs. 2 .

What is DHEA used for?

Since low levels of DHEA have been detected in some individuals with conditions like diabetes, breast cancer, heart disease, osteoporosis, and kidney disease, DHEA supplements are also commonly used as an alternative remedy to treat or prevent such conditions.

What is DHEA in sports?

Metabolic syndrome. Multiple sclerosis. Parkinson's disease. DHEA is also said by some to slow the aging process, improve sports performance, enhance libido, promote weight loss, and bolster the immune system.

Where is DHEA made?

What to Look For. Other Questions. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a steroid hormone available in dietary supplement form. Found naturally in your body, it's made in the adrenal glands. The DHEA found in dietary supplements is a synthetic form of the hormone, produced from diosgenin, ...

Does DHEA increase testosterone?

DHEA is a prohormone and may increase testosterone levels. Its use is banned by sports organizations such as the National Football League, Major League Baseball, and the National Collegiate Athletic Association. 6  However, there is little evidence to show that DHEA has any effect on enhancing muscle strength.

Is DHEA good for depression?

What's more, the review found that DHEA may relieve depressive symptoms in people with conditions like schizophrenia and anorexia nervosa. 5 

Is DHEA a supplement?

DHEA is sometimes used as a supplement by people with the following health problems , although in many cases the use is not yet supported by research, and the FDA has not approved DHEA in the treatment of any condition: 2 . Alzheimer's disease. Chronic fatigue syndrome. Depression.

What is the DHEA hormone?

Overview. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone that your body naturally produces in the adrenal gland. DHEA helps produce other hormones, including testosterone and estrogen. Natural DHEA levels peak in early adulthood and then slowly fall as you age.

What drugs can be used with DHEA?

Antipsychotics. Use of DHEA with antipsychotics such as clozapine (Clozaril, Versacloz, others) might reduce the drug's effectiveness. Carbamazepine (Tegretol, Carbatrol, others). Use of DHEA with this drug used to treat seizures, nerve pain and bipolar disorder might reduce the drug's effectiveness. Estrogen.

Does DHEA cause hair growth?

DHEA might reduce high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or "good," cholesterol levels. Use of DHEA also might worsen psychiatric disorders and increase the risk of mania in people who have mood disorders. DHEA also might cause oily skin, acne and unwanted, male-pattern hair growth in women (hirsutism).

Does DHEA cause cancer?

DHEA is a hormone. Use of this supplement might increase levels of androgen and have a steroid effect. DHEA also might increase the risk of hormone-sensitive cancers, including prostate, breast and ovarian cancers. If you have any form of cancer or are at risk of cancer, don't use DHEA.

Does DHEA help with depression?

A small study suggested that taking DHEA supplements might improve skin hydration and firmness, and decrease aging spots in elderly adults. Depression. DHEA might be more effective at treating depression than placebo, especially in people with low DHEA levels. Osteoporosis.

Does DHEA help with aging?

Aging. In theory, taking DHEA supplements to maintain DHEA levels could slow the aging process, possibly improving well-being, cognitive function and body composition. But so far research hasn't proved this to be true.

Can you use DHEA if you have cancer?

If you have any form of cancer or are at risk of cancer, don't use DHEA. Don't use DHEA if you're pregnant or breastfeeding. Consider avoiding use of DHEA if you have high cholesterol or a condition that affects the supply of blood to the heart (ischemic heart disease).

What are the side effects of DHEA?

What are the risks of taking DHEA? 1 Side effects. Most side effects are mild, like headache, fatigue, insomnia, and congestion. Because DHEA affects hormone levels, it can cause other symptoms. Women may have abnormal periods, acne, or mood changes. They might also take on masculine characteristics, such as facial hair or a deeper voice. Men might develop more breast tissue, high blood pressure, and other problems. 2 Risks. Using high doses of DHEA may not be safe. People who have heart problems, liver disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, thyroid problems, polycystic ovary syndrome, and a history of clotting problems should not use DHEA. DHEA may increase the risk of some cancers that are affected by hormones, like cancers of the breast, ovaries, and prostate. 3 Interactions. If you take any medications regularly, talk to your doctor before you start using DHEA supplements. They could interact with blood thinners, anticonvulsants, hormone therapy, and drugs for diabetes and heart or liver problems.

What are the effects of low DHEA?

Low DHEA levels are associated with aging and a number of diseases, such as anorexia, type 2 diabetes, and HIV. In older men, having low levels of DHEA is also associated with a higher chance of death. However, it's not clear that using DHEA supplements will help lower the risks of getting any diseases. DHEA is used by some people who want ...

What is DHEA used for?

DHEA is used by some people who want to "reverse" aging and boost immunity, cognitive function, and muscle strength. For now, studies don't back up these uses. DHEA has been studied as a treatment for other conditions, ranging from cardiovascular disease to menopause to Alzheimer's. The results have been unclear.

What is DHEA supplement?

DHEA ( dehydroepiandrosterone) is a hormone that's naturally produced by the adrenal glands. Levels of DHEA naturally drop after age 30. Some people take DHEA supplements in the hopes that DHEA will have health benefits and prevent some illnesses. However, the evidence is mixed.

Does DHEA help with depression?

A number of studies have found that DHEA supplements may help people with depression, obesity, lupus, and adrenal insufficiency. DHEA may also improve skin in older people and help treat osteoporosis, vaginal atrophy, erectile dysfunction, and some psychological conditions.

Does DHEA cause headaches?

Most side effects are mild, like headache, fatigue, insomnia, and congestion. Because DHEA affects hormone levels, it can cause other symptoms. Women may have abnormal periods, acne, or mood changes. They might also take on masculine characteristics, such as facial hair or a deeper voice.

Can DHEA be used with blood thinners?

Interactions. If you take any medications regularly, talk to your doctor before you start using DHEA supplements. They could interact with blood thinners, anticonvulsants, hormone therapy, and drugs for diabetes and heart or liver problems.

When does DHEA decrease?

The body naturally produces DHEA for vital hormonal function. In men, DHEA levels begin to decrease steadily after the age of 30. DHEA supplement use is not recommended without the supervision of a licensed physician.

How long does DHEA last?

Research studies have reported effective doses from 25 to 200 mg of DHEA per day for up to one year. A topical cream containing 5 to 10 percent DHEA has also been studied and effective for up to four weeks.

Does DHEA help with adrenal function?

As a precursor to certain hormones, DHEA has been reported by Medline Plus to improve quality of life, sex drive, and hormone levels in men suffering from insufficient adrenal function . However, additional clinical studies are needed in order to accurately support those claims. A study published in the Clinical Endocrinology Journal studied ...

Does DHEA cause blood clotting?

DHEA may increase blood clotting and cause drug interactions with patients taking anticoagulants or anti-platelet medication, according to Medline Plus. Men who take drugs for thyroid disorders, high cholesterol and endocrine abnormalities should also consult their physician before taking DHEA. Advertisement.

Does DHEA increase cGMP?

The results reported that DHEA increased cGMP, an indicator of nitric oxide production, and plays a protective role against cardiovascular disease. The men also reported increases in testosterone levels ...

Is DHEA a precursor to estrogen?

DHEA is also a precursor to other hormones in the body and it can convert into androgen and estrogen. DHEA can be taken orally in a capsule or tablet form or applied topically in a concentrated cream.

Who is the author of DHEA?

The Effects of DHEA on Men. By Anthony Isaac Palacios. ABOUT THE AUTHOR. Anthony Isaac Palacios. Anthony Isaac Palacios has been a professional writer for more than five years for various media including magazine, newspaper and the Internet. He has a Master of Science in dietetics and nutrition and specializes in health ...

What does high DHEA mean?

High DHEA levels could mean you have: Adrenal cancer. Benign or cancerous tumors in the adrenal gland. Polycystic ovary syndrome (a common condition in women under 50) Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, which is a common genetic disorder.

What does it mean when your DHEA is low?

However, a low level of DHEA may indicate: Addison’s disease (adrenal glands don’t make enough of certain hormones) Hypopituitarism ( pituitary gland doesn’t make enough of its hormones) Dementia. Trouble getting or keeping an erection.

What is a DHEA test?

A DHEA test measures the level of DHEA and DHEA sulfate (DHEA-S) in your blood and is mainly used to: Check whether your adrenal glands are functioning properly. Diagnose tumors in the adrenal glands. Diagnose problems in testes or ovaries. Identify the cause of early puberty in boys.

Why is my adrenal gland not producing enough hormones?

Low DHEA level: Your adrenal glands are not making enough of the hormones, which could be caused by damage to the adrenal glands or diseased pituitary glands.