These comments are made for the purpose of discussion and should NOT be used as recommendations for or against therapies or other treatments. An individual patient is always advised to consult their own physician.
Benefits of DHEA
Question: What are the benefits of DHEA?
Answer: it’s not clear yet. It is given in many studies of cancer patients, AIDS patients, etc. It has improved
the sense of well being, but had minimal impact on measurable disease indexes. Also, it’s touted as a
drug to increase longevity (based on mouse studies only). It is found in high levels in patients with
minimal cardiovascular disease. However, it’s unclear if high levels are just a marker or the cause of this benefit. To date, the research hasn’t demonstrated dramatic changes with this drug (popular
press to the contrary).
General Information
Question: Could you please update me on DHEA adverse effects.
Answer: Nothing new recently. The usual-occasional gynecomastia in males, male pattern balding in some women, acne, hirsutism, change in women’s voices. There is concern about stimulating prostate cancer(unclear).
DHEA Supplements
Question: How well-made are the DHEA supplements on the market? Any brands on the market better than others (be it due to how they are made or how well-made) ?
Answer: Since this isn’t sold as a prescription, I don’t have much information on different manufacturers.
