DHEA: How It Works, What It's Studied For & Safety
DHEA is an adrenal steroid hormone that serves as a precursor for downstream androgens and estrogens; available OTC as a dietary supplement and as compounded prescription preparations. Clinicians consider it for adrenal insufficiency (FDA-approved as Intrarosa for vulvovaginal atrophy; OTC as a dietary supplement otherwise). Not FDA-approved; dispensed by Wells Pharmacy Network only after a clinician evaluation.
Also known as: Dehydroepiandrosterone, Prasterone
How does DHEA work?
DHEA is produced by the adrenal cortex and is the most abundant circulating steroid in adults. Tissues convert DHEA to testosterone, estradiol, and other downstream sex steroids depending on local enzyme expression.
What is DHEA studied for?
- Adrenal insufficiency (FDA-approved as Intrarosa for vulvovaginal atrophy; OTC as a dietary supplement otherwise)
- Low-libido and energy research in adults with low DHEA-S
- Clinician-directed hormone-restoration protocols
How is DHEA taken?
Available OTC as oral capsules. Prescription compounded preparations include vaginal inserts (Intrarosa is the FDA-approved version) and customized strengths.
Is DHEA FDA-approved? Is it safe?
Intrarosa (vaginal DHEA) is FDA-approved. OTC oral DHEA is regulated as a supplement. May raise downstream androgens - cycling and labs are appropriate. Compounded prescription-only preparations are dispensed by Wells Pharmacy Network. Eligibility is decided by a licensed clinician based on intake and labs, not by checkout. Compounded products on this site are not FDA-approved and are not generic equivalents of any branded medication.
In the Regen Therapy catalog
This compound does not currently appear in an active Regen Therapy protocol. Browse the full catalog for adjacent options.
What does the research say about DHEA?
Mixed clinical research; benefit is most consistent in adults with documented low DHEA-S.
Citations & further reading
Considering DHEA as part of a protocol?
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