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What are DHEA Side Effects?

Thomma Grindstaff
Thomma Grindstaff

A steroid hormone made naturally by the body, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is used by some people as a nutritional supplement. DHEA has a low incidence of side effects when taken for brief periods of time at low doses. When taken for long periods of time at high doses, however, DHEA may result in side effects that range from mild to potentially serious. DHEA side effects include acne, high blood pressure and, in women, deeper voices and the growth of facial hair. Some people should only use DHEA under a doctor's supervision, if at all.

DHEA side effects usually become more pronounced when the hormone is taken in high doses. High doses of DHEA are defined as 50-100 milligrams or more per day. Nausea, high blood pressure, and acne are the most commonly reported side effects. DHEA side effects also include the alteration of how sugar functions in the body, so it should be avoided by people who have diabetes. Studies have shown that DHEA lowers high lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), so patients who have low HDL need to talk to their doctors before using the hormone.

Women with endometriosis and uterine fibroids should not take dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) supplements.
Women with endometriosis and uterine fibroids should not take dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) supplements.

In women, DHEA side effects can include the growth of facial hair, the deepening of their voices, and irregular menstrual cycles. DHEA, as it's made naturally in the body, is secreted by the adrenal glands and increases the body's levels of androgens. High levels of these hormones activate androgen receptors, resulting in male characteristics. The symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can worsen with DHEA supplementation. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid DHEA.

Commercial DHEA is touted as an athletic performance enhancer.
Commercial DHEA is touted as an athletic performance enhancer.

Other DHEA side effects relate to its ramifications on how estrogen is utilized by the body. Women who have conditions that are affected by estrogen levels shouldn't supplement with DHEA. Such conditions include uterine fibroids, endometriosis, and cancers of the reproductive organs.

Studies have shown that DHEA, a cortisol antagonist, can improve mood and help treat mild depression. If a person suffers from a clinical mood disorder, however, he or she shouldn't use DHEA. The hormone has also been shown to be effective in treating symptoms of lupus. DHEA is often used as an aid for developing muscle mass, but clinical trials have returned insufficient evidence for its efficacy in muscle building.

Women who have medical conditions associated with hormones, such as uterine fibroids, should avoid DHEA.
Women who have medical conditions associated with hormones, such as uterine fibroids, should avoid DHEA.

Proponents of DHEA supplementation claim that the hormone can improve episodic memory in aging people. Medical research for this claim has, however, provided inconclusive results. Studies have shown that DHEA can be effective in improving bone density in older patients who suffer from osteoporosis.

Discussion Comments

fify

Some people actually do not experience side effects from DHEA. I know several people who use it for improved energy and they've all benefited from DHEA without noticeable side effects. The only person I know who had issues with DHEA was because he already has prostate issues and he said that the DHEA made it worse. But otherwise, it's a fairly good supplement to improve energy. I'm not a doctor though so don't take my word for it and ask your doctor before using DHEA supplements.

literally45

@SteamLouis-- I agree with you. I did not experience mood changes on DHEA, but I did develop acne and hair loss. I was not expecting these side effects because I was on the lowest dose possible. I thought that a low dose will be fairly safe but obviously not.

SteamLouis

I'm not a doctor, but as far as I understand, DHEA side effects vary from person to person.

In some people, it improves mood, whereas in others, it worsens mood. Some people feel more energetic, have better libido and concentration. Others do not experience these benefits but my have hair loss or excessive hair, headaches, high blood pressure and high blood sugar or acne. There is no rule that everyone will have all of these side effects. But everyone on high doses of DHEA are at risk for these issues so it's best to use this supplement carefully.

My brother used DHEA for several weeks but quit because he said it made him upset and angry all the time.

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    • Women with endometriosis and uterine fibroids should not take dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) supplements.
      By: ryanking999
      Women with endometriosis and uterine fibroids should not take dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) supplements.
    • Commercial DHEA is touted as an athletic performance enhancer.
      By: Christopher Howey
      Commercial DHEA is touted as an athletic performance enhancer.
    • Women who have medical conditions associated with hormones, such as uterine fibroids, should avoid DHEA.
      By: rob3000
      Women who have medical conditions associated with hormones, such as uterine fibroids, should avoid DHEA.
    • The body has two adrenal glands that when properly functioning release hormones -- such as dehydroepiandrosterone -- that help regulate metabolism, physical development and stress.
      By: Sebastian Kaulitzki
      The body has two adrenal glands that when properly functioning release hormones -- such as dehydroepiandrosterone -- that help regulate metabolism, physical development and stress.