DHEA Side Effects
From Pharmacy Drug Guide
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone), an over the counter supplement, is natural hormone produced by the adrenal glands, and also in the testes of men. Like many supplements, DHEA has the risk of side effects, such acne, hair loss, stomach upset, and high blood pressure. Some women may experience changes in menstruation, grow hair on the face, or find that their voice deepens.[1]
Tyically, DHEA levels decline as people age. DHEA is also less abundant among depressed people. Consumers may take DHEA dietary supplements to make the skin appear more youthful, improve bone mineral density, fight erectile dysfunction (ED), treat lupus symptoms, or treat schizophrenia. There is evidence to suggest that DHEA may be effective for these purposes. There are also numerous claims that need more research to validate, such as that DHEA can prevent aging, promote weight loss, and fight depression.[1]
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| Brand names | Natrol, Source Naturals, Enzymatic, Life Extension, others |
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| Manufacturer | Various |
| Chemical name | Dehydroepiandrosterone |
| Uses | Anti-aging, bone health, erectile dysfunction, etc. |
| Common side effects | Acne, hair loss, stomach upset, and high blood pressure |
| Who should not take DHEA | People with liver problems; women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.[1] |
| Disclaimer | The information provided by PharmacyDrugGuide.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not take any action based on the information on this page without consulting a physician. |
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Common DHEA Side Effects
Common side effects of DHEA Common side effects include acne, hair loss, stomach upset, and high blood pressure. Women have additional side effects such as lowered voice, facial hair growth and altered menstrual cycle. People who use hormone replacement drugs or supplements can adversely affect their hormonal system. No supplement can adequately replace replace the body's own version. The body's hormonal balance is so complex that an excess of one hormone could cause the reverse of the intended effect. Taking a supplement can cause the body's natural hormone regulation to malfunction or stop working altogether. In addition, the body often process artificial supplements differently than the naturally produced hormone, causing undesired effects. Scientists simply do not know all of the potential consequences."[2]
About Drug Side Effects
DHEA Allergic Reactions
Since DHEA is a naturally occurring substance in the body, allergic reactions are rare but possible. An allergic reaction is more likely attributable to one of the inert substances used in the manufacturing of the product. Symptoms can include hives, rash, swelling, cramping, upset stomach and more. Allergies can become dangerous if difficulty breathing or swallowing occurs.[3]
DHEA Precautions and Warnings
Dietary supplements are not subject to FDA scrutiny, and can contain varying levels of the active ingredient. Sometimes there is little or no DHEA in the supplement.
DHEA has been touted as a miracle cure for a number of maladies. A 2004 review in the American Journal of Sports Medicine concluded that "The marketing of this supplement's effectiveness far exceeds its science."[4] DHEA is transformed into androstenedione and testosterone in men, and during the process it may be converted into estrogen. Thus, taking DHEA could increase estrogen levels more than testosterone levels in men.[5]
DHEA as an Anti-Aging Supplement
DHEA reduce with age. Therefore, some conclude that supplements help curb aging. One 2004 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association supports this theory. After six months of taking DHEA supplements, older adults had less abdominal fat and lowered insulin resistance. However, a more recent and comprehensive study shows otherwise. Researchers from the Mayo Clinic examined the effect of DHEA supplementation on muscle strength and physical performance. Subjects 60 and over who took the hormone for two years showed no measurable improvements in the signs of aging, including body fat, physical performance, insulin sensitivity, and quality of life. Although there are many studies linking increased disease with lowered DHEA levels, there is no solid evidence that DHEA has anything to do with the diseases themselves.[6]
Also See: DHEA Coupons, Lupron Coupons, Restylane Side Effects, HGH Side Effects, Latisse Coupons
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References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/331.html#Safety
- ↑ http://www.nia.nih.gov/healthinformation/publications/preventaging.htm
- ↑ http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000812.htm
- ↑ http://ajs.sagepub.com/content/32/6/1543
- ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dhea/NS_patient-dhea
- ↑ http://www.webmd.com/diet/dhea-supplements
