Hormonal/Women/Longevity

DHEA

Adrenal hormone precursor studied for age-related decline in women, sexual function, and bone density.

score

evidence

Caution

risk

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Use with caution

This supplement may interact with medications, medical conditions or sensitive populations. Review safety before use.

Overview

Forms

Safety

Stack

Quick Take

Only worth considering if blood DHEA-S is low or for specific hormone-related symptoms in older adults.

DHEA is an endogenous steroid hormone made mainly by the adrenal glands and brain; it is sold as prasterone and has no meaningful dietary sources. In tissues, it can be converted into testosterone and estradiol and also acts as a neurosteroid, which may affect hormone signaling and brain function. Best human evidence is for sexual function in some postmenopausal women and for bone mineral density in older adults or people with adrenal insufficiency; mood, muscle, cognition, and body-composition effects are less consistent.

Potential benefits

Improves sexual function in women

Supports bone mineral density

May improve depressive symptoms

May improve skin hydration

May improve body composition

May support muscle strength

May support cognitive function

Protocol

Amount

25-50 mg

Frequency

Once daily

When

Morning, with or without food — taking it earlier may avoid vivid dreams.

Onset Time

2-4 weeks for hormonal changes; 8-12 weeks for symptom or bone effects.

Who Should Consider

Adults 60+ with low DHEA-S levels

Postmenopausal women with low libido

People with adrenal insufficiency

Those with confirmed low androgen levels

How It Works

DHEA is a prohormone converted peripherally into androgens and estrogens via sulfatase and aromatase enzymes. It also acts directly as a neurosteroid at GABA-A and NMDA receptors in the brain. These actions influence bone turnover, sexual function, and possibly neurotransmission, though tissue-specific conversion rates vary widely between individuals.

Updated 5/19/2026