From the Guidelines
There is no clear benefit to taking 7-keto DHEA, as the current evidence does not support its use for any specific medical condition, and its effects on morbidity, mortality, and quality of life are unknown. The provided evidence does not mention 7-keto DHEA, but rather discusses the use of DHEA (prasterone) for vaginal dryness and pain with sexual activity in postmenopausal individuals 1. Some studies have shown DHEA to be effective at reducing dyspareunia in postmenopausal individuals, but the safety data for the use of androgen-based therapy in survivors of hormonally mediated cancers are limited 1.
When considering the use of any supplement, including 7-keto DHEA, it is essential to prioritize the potential impact on morbidity, mortality, and quality of life. In the absence of strong evidence supporting its benefits, caution should be exercised, and alternative evidence-based treatments should be considered. For example, vaginal estrogen is the most effective treatment for vaginal dryness leading to sexual dysfunction and has been shown to be effective in treating itching, discomfort, and painful intercourse in postmenopausal individuals 1.
Key points to consider:
- The evidence for 7-keto DHEA is limited and does not support its use for any specific medical condition
- DHEA (prasterone) may be effective for vaginal dryness and pain with sexual activity in postmenopausal individuals, but safety data are limited 1
- Alternative evidence-based treatments, such as vaginal estrogen, should be considered for vaginal dryness and sexual dysfunction 1
- Consultation with a healthcare provider is essential before starting any supplement, especially if you have hormone-sensitive conditions, take medications, or have existing health issues.
From the FDA Drug Label
Indications: For temporary relief of symptoms related to increased appetite, regulation of fat metabolism, and detoxification stress The potential benefits of taking 7-keto DHEA include:
- Temporary relief of symptoms related to increased appetite
- Regulation of fat metabolism
- Relief of symptoms related to detoxification stress 2
From the Research
Benefits of 7-Keto DHEA
- Weight loss: Studies have shown that 7-Keto DHEA can aid in weight loss by increasing the resting metabolic rate (RMR) of overweight adults 3, 4.
- Reduction in body fat percentage and BMI: One study found a decrease in body fat percentage and another reported a decrease in BMI 3.
- Increased resting metabolic rate: Two studies stated an increase in resting metabolic rate 3, 4.
- Reduction in ethanol intake: 7-Keto DHEA has been shown to decrease voluntary ethanol intake in male rats 5.
- Safety: A study found that 3-acetyl-7-oxo-DHEA (7-Keto DHEA) is safe and well tolerated in healthy male volunteers at doses up to 200 mg/d for 4 weeks 6.
Mechanisms and Metabolism
- 7-Keto DHEA is metabolized to various compounds, including 7-oxo-DHEA-3beta-sulfate (DHEA-S) 7, 6.
- The metabolism of 7-Keto DHEA can lead to the formation of unexpected compounds, which can be misinterpreted in antidoping analyses 7.
- 7-Keto DHEA does not accumulate in the body and is rapidly converted to its sulfate form 6.
Potential Uses
- Weight loss and management: 7-Keto DHEA may be useful as a dietary supplement to support weight loss and management 3, 4.
- Reduction in ethanol intake: 7-Keto DHEA may have potential as a treatment for alcohol abuse 5.
- Antidoping: Understanding the metabolism of 7-Keto DHEA is important for accurate interpretation of antidoping test results 7.