From the Guidelines
The recommended DHEA supplement dosage is not clearly established, but it can be considered in women with low libido and/or energy who are judged to be otherwise well replaced, with a dosage typically ranging from 25 to 50 mg per day for adults, taken orally once daily. When considering DHEA replacement, it is crucial to weigh the potential benefits against the risks, as the evidence for its effectiveness is not strong 1. The decision to use DHEA supplements should be made under the guidance of a healthcare provider, taking into account the individual's overall health status and potential interactions with other medications. Key considerations include:
- Monitoring hormone levels regularly, especially when taking DHEA long-term
- Being aware of the potential for variable quality between different supplement products
- Avoiding use in individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions, liver problems, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Recognizing that DHEA is a supplement and not a medication, which may impact its regulation and safety profile. Given the controversy surrounding DHEA replacement, as noted in the guideline update on managing immune-related adverse events in patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy 1, a cautious approach is advisable, prioritizing thorough patient evaluation and ongoing monitoring.
From the Research
Recommended Dosage of DHEA Supplement
The recommended dosage of Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) supplement varies depending on the individual and the specific condition being treated.
- A study published in 2007 2 suggests a single oral dose of 25-50 mg DHEA in the morning for patients with adrenal insufficiency.
- Another study published in 2005 3 found that the maximum increase of normal cell telomere was obtained by a single optimal dose of 1.25-12.5 mg, depending on the individual.
- A study published in 2000 4 used a DHEA dose of 50 mg/d, which raised the initially low serum concentrations of DHEA, DHEAS, androstenedione, and testosterone into the normal range in women with primary and secondary adrenal insufficiency.
- Other studies have also used a dose of 50 mg/day, including a 2011 study 5 on female adrenocortical failure and a 2004 study 6 on patients with hypoadrenalism.
Factors Affecting Dosage
The optimal dosage of DHEA may depend on various factors, including:
- Individual characteristics, such as age and sex
- The specific condition being treated, such as adrenal insufficiency or hypoadrenalism
- The duration of treatment, with some studies suggesting that long-term treatment may be necessary to fully explore the role of DHEA in certain conditions 2
- The presence of side effects, such as increased sebum production, facial acne, and changes in hair status, which may be related to androgenic activity of DHEA in women 2