From the Guidelines
Yes, DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) taken orally can raise testosterone levels in women, as evidenced by the most recent study in 2024 1. When women take DHEA supplements, typically at doses of 25-50 mg daily, their bodies convert some of this precursor hormone into testosterone, leading to measurable increases in circulating testosterone levels. This effect is particularly notable in women with adrenal insufficiency or those who are postmenopausal, as natural DHEA production declines with age. The testosterone increase from DHEA supplementation is generally modest compared to direct testosterone therapy, but it can be sufficient to address symptoms of testosterone deficiency such as low libido, fatigue, and decreased muscle mass. Key points to consider include:
- DHEA serves as a precursor in the steroidogenic pathway, where enzymes in various tissues transform it into androgens including testosterone.
- Women considering DHEA supplementation should be aware that side effects may include acne, hair growth, and other androgenic effects, and should ideally use it under medical supervision to monitor hormone levels and adjust dosing appropriately, as noted in a consensus statement from 2014 1.
- The use of DHEA should be approached with caution, especially in survivors receiving aromatase inhibitor therapy, due to its potential to impact AI activity, as highlighted in the 2024 guidelines 1. Important considerations for the use of DHEA in clinical practice include:
- Monitoring of hormone levels to ensure that testosterone levels are maintained within a normal range.
- Regular assessment of symptoms and side effects to adjust dosing as needed.
- Awareness of the potential interactions between DHEA and other medications, such as aromatase inhibitors.
From the Research
Effects of DHEA on Testosterone Levels in Women
- DHEA supplementation has been found to increase testosterone levels in women, with a significant increase in testosterone level after DHEA administration 2.
- A study found that DHEA increased serum androstenedione, testosterone, and dihydrotestosterone levels in women to levels above gender-specific young adult ranges 3.
- Another study found that DHEA supplementation increased DHEAS levels, which facilitated the production of downstream androgens, including testosterone, in women 4.
- However, a study found that DHEA supplementation did not have a significant effect on testosterone levels in elderly women, although it did increase DHEAS levels 5.
Comparison of DHEA Administration Routes
- A study found that oral DHEA administration increased testosterone levels in women, with no significant difference in the effects of oral DHEA compared to intravaginal DHEA 6.
- Another study found that oral DHEA supplementation increased testosterone levels in women, with a greater magnitude of increase in females compared to males 2.
Dose-Response Relationship
- A study found that DHEA dosage of >50 mg/d had a greater effect on increasing testosterone levels compared to ≤50 mg/d 2.
- Another study found that a daily oral dose of 100 mg of DHEA for 6 months resulted in an elevation of circulating DHEA and DS concentrations, as well as an increase in serum testosterone levels in women 3.