From the Guidelines
DHEA levels can be increased through supplementation, specifically with oral DHEA tablets, typically at a dose of 25 mg per day, as guided by serum DHEA sulphate levels 1. When considering methods to increase DHEA, it's essential to prioritize approaches that are evidence-based and safe.
- DHEA supplementation is a direct method to increase levels, with dosing guided by serum levels and clinical response.
- The use of DHEA replacement therapy should be cautious, especially considering the limited objective evidence of clinical benefit from large studies 1. Key factors to consider in the management of DHEA levels include:
- Monitoring serum DHEA sulphate, androstenedione, and testosterone levels to guide supplementation.
- Starting with a low dose, such as 25 mg per day, and adjusting based on clinical response and serum levels.
- Being aware of the potential for variable responses to DHEA supplementation, and the need for ongoing monitoring and adjustment of therapy as needed. It's also important to note that while other methods such as exercise, sleep management, and nutrition can support overall hormone health, the most direct and evidence-supported method for increasing DHEA levels is through supplementation, as outlined in the consensus statement on the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of patients with primary adrenal insufficiency 1.
From the Research
Factors that Increase Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)
- DHEA supplementation: Studies have shown that DHEA supplementation can increase DHEA levels in the body 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Dosage: A daily dose of 50-100 mg of DHEA has been shown to be effective in increasing DHEA levels 3, 4.
- Duration of treatment: Longer duration of treatment (6 months or more) may be more effective in increasing DHEA levels and improving outcomes 3, 5.
- Individual factors: Factors such as age, sex, and underlying medical conditions (e.g. adrenal insufficiency) may influence the effectiveness of DHEA supplementation in increasing DHEA levels 4, 5, 6.
Effects of Increased DHEA Levels
- Improved well-being: Increased DHEA levels have been associated with improved psychological well-being, vitality, and fatigue 2, 4, 5.
- Increased muscle strength: DHEA supplementation has been shown to increase muscle strength in men 3.
- Improved bone density: DHEA supplementation has been shown to improve bone density in older adults 5.
- Improved sexual function: DHEA supplementation has been shown to improve sexual function in women with hypopituitarism 6.