From the Guidelines
Low Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) levels in the blood are most accurately indicated by recent studies to be associated with adrenal insufficiency, aging, or certain chronic health conditions, with the most recent evidence suggesting a peak in early adulthood and a decline by about 10% per decade 1. When considering the implications of low DHEA levels, it's essential to understand that DHEA is a hormone produced primarily by the adrenal glands, serving as a precursor to male and female sex hormones.
- The decline in DHEA production with age is a natural process, but abnormally low levels may signal adrenal gland dysfunction, including conditions like Addison's disease or secondary adrenal insufficiency.
- Other potential causes of low DHEA levels include chronic stress, depression, anorexia nervosa, type 2 diabetes, and critical illness, as identified in various clinical studies 1. Key points to consider in the diagnosis and management of low DHEA levels include:
- Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include DHEA supplementation in doses ranging from 25-50 mg daily, though this should only be done under medical supervision.
- Low DHEA can contribute to symptoms like fatigue, decreased muscle mass, reduced bone density, and mood changes.
- Diagnosis typically requires blood tests measuring both DHEA and DHEA-sulfate (DHEA-S) levels, often as part of a comprehensive hormonal evaluation, with the most accurate methods being those that account for individual variations and use reference ranges based on population characteristics such as ethnicity and age 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
INDICATIONS: Temporarily supports the body to rebalance Adrenal and DHEA output. Symptoms of imbalanced Adrenal and DHEA may include: low energy, depression, anxiety, dry eyes, skin, and hair, loss of head hair. A low Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) level in the blood may indicate imbalanced Adrenal and DHEA output, which can be associated with symptoms such as:
- Low energy
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Dry eyes, skin, and hair
- Loss of head hair 2
From the Research
Low DHEA Levels in the Blood
A low Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) level in the blood can indicate several health issues. Some of the possible indications of low DHEA levels include:
- Adrenal insufficiency: DHEA is produced by the adrenal glands, and low levels can be a sign of adrenal insufficiency, a condition where the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones 3, 4.
- Decreased androgen production: DHEA is a precursor to androgens, such as testosterone, and low levels can lead to decreased androgen production, which can affect sexual function and overall health 5, 6.
- Metabolic problems: Low DHEA levels have been linked to metabolic problems, such as insulin resistance and obesity 3, 5.
- Decreased bone density: DHEA has been shown to have a positive effect on bone density, and low levels can increase the risk of osteoporosis 3, 5.
- Decreased immune function: DHEA has immunomodulatory effects, and low levels can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections 5.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing low DHEA levels typically involves a blood test to measure DHEA sulfate (DHEA-S) levels. Treatment for low DHEA levels usually involves DHEA replacement therapy, which can help alleviate symptoms and improve overall health 3, 7, 6. However, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment, as DHEA replacement therapy can have varying effects on different individuals 3, 5.
Associated Health Conditions
Low DHEA levels have been associated with several health conditions, including:
- Adrenal insufficiency: As mentioned earlier, low DHEA levels can be a sign of adrenal insufficiency 3, 4.
- Systemic lupus erythematosus: DHEA has been shown to have a positive effect on systemic lupus erythematosus, and low levels can exacerbate symptoms 5.
- Inflammatory bowel disease: DHEA has anti-inflammatory effects, and low levels can worsen symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease 5.
- Cardiovascular disease: Low DHEA levels have been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease 5.