DHEA or dehydroepiandosterone is a naturally occurring steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, and in small quantities by the ovaries and testes. It is a precursor for the production of sex hormones, such as testosterone and estrogen. DHEA levels peak around the late teens and will decrease with age. By the age of 80, DHEA levels may be as low as 10-20% that of a young adult.
Why take DHEA?
DHEA is more commonly prescribed to treat symptoms in post-menopausal women. Symptoms can include low bone mineral density, vaginal atrophy or painful sexual intercourse. It may also be used in pre-menopausal women with sexual dysfunction or as an alternative treatment for major depressive disorder.
Some potential benefits of DHEA include:
- Improvement of muscle mass
- Anti-aging properties
- Decreased risk of depression and decline in cognitive function
- Decreased risk of sexual dysfunction
What dosage should you take?
The majority of DHEA is available as an over-the-counter dietary supplement derived from diosgenin extracted from wild yams. It comes in various dosage forms but it most commonly taken as a tablet or capsules.
Common dosing for symptoms include:
- Major depressive disorder: 30-450 mg/day orally for 6-8 weeks
- Adrenal insufficiency: 25 mg/day orally titrated to 50 mg/day.
- Premenopausal females with sexual disorders and low libido: 75 mg/day orally.
- Postmenopausal females with low bone mineral density: 25 mg/day orally titrated to 50 mg/day, then to 100 mg/day
- Painful sexual intercourse: prasterone 6.5mg intravaginally daily at bedtime
Why Preston’s Pharmacy?
Preston’s Pharmacy, in Arlington, sells over-the-counter DHEA. We recommend trusted vitamin brands, such as Pure Encapsulations. Compounded pharmacies are utilized if the dosage form or strength is not available commercially. Preston’s Pharmacy, in Falls Church, can customize DHEA, allowing for a personalized form for each patient.
Learn more by emailing customer.service@prestonspharmacy.com today!
