DHEA Therapy: Pros and Cons

 Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone naturally produced by the adrenal glands, playing a key role as a precursor to both testosterone and oestrogen. Dubbed the “mother hormone” or “youth hormone,” DHEA levels peak in early adulthood and gradually decline with age—by around 70, levels may drop to just 20% of what they were in youth. As a result, DHEA supplementation has gained popularity as a potential tool for combating the effects of ageing, improving energy, mood, libido, and more. But is DHEA therapy truly beneficial, or are its risks overlooked?

Here’s an in-depth look at the pros and cons of DHEA therapy, helping you make an informed decision.


What is DHEA Therapy?

DHEA therapy involves supplementing the body with synthetic or bioidentical DHEA—available as tablets, creams, or injections—to restore youthful levels of the hormone. It’s often used in anti-ageing programmes, hormone replacement strategies, and by patients with adrenal insufficiency or other hormonal imbalances.


Pros of DHEA Therapy

1. Supports Hormonal Balance

As a precursor to testosterone and oestrogen, DHEA helps maintain hormonal equilibrium in both men and women. Supplementation may improve symptoms related to low sex hormones, such as fatigue, low libido, mood swings, or brain fog.

2. May Improve Mood and Mental Health

Some studies suggest DHEA may have mild antidepressant and anxiolytic effects. It may improve mood, reduce irritability, and enhance emotional resilience, particularly in people with adrenal fatigue or low hormone levels due to ageing.

3. Enhances Libido and Sexual Function

In both men and women, DHEA may help improve libido and sexual satisfaction. For postmenopausal women, topical DHEA (e.g., vaginal creams) has been shown to relieve vaginal dryness, increase lubrication, and enhance sexual function.

4. Improves Skin Elasticity and Appearance

DHEA is often used in anti-ageing treatments because of its impact on skin health. It may enhance skin hydration, thickness, and collagen production—reducing the appearance of wrinkles and improving elasticity.

5. Supports Bone Health

DHEA may have a positive effect on bone mineral density, especially in older women. By increasing oestrogen and testosterone levels, it can potentially reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

6. Possible Immune Support

There is emerging evidence that DHEA can modulate the immune system. Low levels are associated with weakened immunity, and supplementation may help enhance immune response in older adults.

7. Adrenal Insufficiency Treatment

For individuals with adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease), DHEA supplementation can reduce fatigue and improve quality of life by compensating for what the adrenal glands can no longer produce.


Cons of DHEA Therapy

1. May Cause Hormonal Imbalance

Excessive DHEA can lead to an overproduction of sex hormones, causing unwanted side effects such as oily skin, acne, hair thinning (in women), or hirsutism (unwanted facial/body hair). In men, it could potentially worsen conditions like prostate enlargement.

2. Not Suitable for Everyone

Individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers—such as breast, uterine, or prostate cancer—are generally advised to avoid DHEA, as it may stimulate tumour growth by increasing oestrogen or testosterone levels.

3. May Disrupt Sleep

Some people report insomnia or restlessness when taking DHEA, especially if dosed late in the day. Because it can influence cortisol and melatonin, its timing and dosage must be carefully managed.

4. Limited Long-Term Research

While short-term studies show promise, long-term safety data on DHEA use are lacking. Regular use without medical supervision may carry unknown risks, especially when hormone levels are not monitored.

5. Interference with Lab Tests

DHEA supplements can interfere with hormone blood tests, leading to misleading results. It’s important for individuals undergoing any hormone therapy to inform their doctor about supplement use.

6. Possible Mood Swings or Aggression

In some users, DHEA has been linked to irritability, agitation, or mood swings—likely due to sudden shifts in hormonal levels, especially testosterone. This is more common in higher doses.

7. Legality and Regulation

DHEA is banned by some sports organisations due to its performance-enhancing effects. Athletes using it without disclosure may face penalties. Additionally, quality control varies between over-the-counter supplements, raising concerns about purity and dosing accuracy.


Who Should Consider DHEA Therapy?

DHEA therapy may be appropriate for:

  • Individuals with clinically low DHEA levels

  • Patients with adrenal insufficiency

  • Postmenopausal women with vaginal atrophy

  • Men and women experiencing age-related hormonal decline (under medical supervision)

It is not recommended for:

  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women

  • Individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions

  • People with a history of prostate or breast cancer

  • Those with uncontrolled mood disorders


Final Thoughts

DHEA therapy offers promising benefits—especially in supporting hormone balance, libido, mood, and skin health. However, it is not without its drawbacks. Hormone therapies must be personalised, monitored, and guided by medical professionals to avoid the risks of imbalance and unwanted side effects.

Before starting DHEA, a comprehensive hormone test (blood, saliva, or urine) is essential. A functional medicine doctor or endocrinologist can help determine if DHEA therapy Surrey is right for you and tailor the dose to your unique needs.

As with any hormone intervention, the goal is balance—not excess. When used wisely, DHEA can be a helpful part of a broader anti-ageing or hormonal support programme. But when misused, it may do more harm than good.

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