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What Are the Dangers of DHEA?

Produced by the adrenal gland, DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a steroidal hormone that eventually is transformed into other hormones, most notably the male and female sex hormones testosterone and estrogen, respectively. Natural DHEA levels tend to decrease after the age of 30, according to MayoClinic.com. For this and other reasons, its popularity as a dietary supplement has grown in recent years. However, DHEA can have unpleasant side effects, and its use can be particularly dangerous for some users.

  1. Why It Is Taken

    • DHEA has been shown to be beneficial in easing the symptoms of several illnesses, according to MayoClinic.com. These include depression, adrenal insufficiency and systemic lupus erythematosus. The hormone is also used by obstetricians to help induce labor. And many bodybuilders, both male and female, take DHEA because it is believed to promote muscle growth.

    Other Reasons for Lower DHEA Levels

    • While the production of DHEA declines as a person ages, MayoClinic.com reports that natural DHEA levels are also lower in patients with certain medical conditions, including anorexia, type II diabetes, kidney failure, AIDS and adrenal insufficiency. DHEA levels also can be lowered by medications such as corticosteroids, insulin and opiates.

    Increased Cancer Risk

    • The Nutrition News website reports that the American Institute for Cancer Research has warned that the use of DHEA increases the risk of such hormone-related cancers as breast, prostate and endometrial. The institute also cautions patients with these cancers to avoid DHEA, because its use may accelerate the spread of the cancer throughout the affected organs and beyond.

    Other Dangers

    • For men, other potential dangers from heavy doses of DHEA, according to AntiAgingGuide.com, include acne, hair loss and antisocial behavioral changes. MayoClinic.com points out that women taking high levels of supplementary DHEA may experience facial hair growth, a deepening of their voice, increased perspiration and weight gain, particularly around the waist. The website says that these undesirable side effects generally will disappear when patients decrease their daily dosage of the hormone. DHEA use can be particularly dangerous for patients with diabetes or hyperglycemia, high cholesterol, thyroid disorders, other hormonal conditions or liver disease.

    Bottom Line

    • Although DHEA use can be dangerous for patients with certain medical conditions and also when taken in high doses, the hormone has shown benefits and minimal side effects for most people. You and your doctor together must decide if the use of DHEA makes sense for you. If you suffer from one of the conditions in which DHEA can have a negative effect, you should be monitored closely to see whether adjustments in dosage are necessary.

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