What exactly is DHEA, what is it used for, and is it safe?
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DHEA stands for Dehydroepiandrosterone and is a precursor steroid produced from cholesterol from the adrenal glands, sex organs or other organs. It is useful in treatment of Lupus, Alzheimers. Supplements are usually taken for a variety of reasons--it is thought to increase muscle mass (although this is disputed) but should be monitored in younger people because it can stunt growth, cause excessive hair growth or loss and causes problems for patients who have cancer.
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DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is hormone (made in the human body), and secreted by the adrenal gland. serves as precursor to male and female sex hormones . DHEA levels in the body begin to decrease after age 30.
There is sufficient evidence supporting the use of DHEA in the treatment of adrenal insufficiency, depression, induction of labor, and systemic lupus erythematosus.
No studies on the long-term effects of DHEA have been conducted. DHEA can cause higher than normal levels of androgens and estrogens in the body, and theoretically may increase the risk of prostate, breast, ovarian, and other hormone-sensitive cancers.
Side effects may include fatigue, nasal congestion, headache, acne, or rapid/irregular heartbeats. In women, the most common side effects are abnormal menses, emotional changes, headache, and insomnia. Individuals with a history of abnormal heart rhythms, blood clots or hypercoagulability, and those with a history of liver disease, should avoid DHEA supplements. masculinization may occur in women, including acne, greasy skin, facial hair, hair loss, increased sweating, weight gain around the waist, or a deeper voice. Likewise, men may develop more prominent breasts (gynecomastia), breast tenderness, increased blood pressure, testicular wasting, or increased aggressiveness. Other hormonal-related side effects may include increased blood sugar levels, insulin resistance, altered cholesterol levels, altered thyroid hormone levels, and altered adrenal function. Caution is advised in patients with diabetes or hyperglycemia, high cholesterol, thyroid disorders, or other endocrine (hormonal) abnormalities. Serum glucose, cholesterol and thyroid levels may need to be monitored by a healthcare professional, and medication adjustments may be necessary.
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