DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is having a moment. Once considered a fringe product, this hormone supplement has become a multibillion-dollar industry, thanks to claims that it can boost energy, improve brain function, ease menopause symptoms, and even enhance sexual health.
But before you head to the nearest health store or click “add to cart,” there are some important things you should know.
What is DHEA?
DHEA is a hormone produced by your adrenal glands, located just above your kidneys. It plays a key role in helping your body make other hormones, including estrogen and testosterone. Your DHEA levels peak in your 20s and decline steadily with age.
Because studies have shown potential benefits—like improved mood, bone density, and sexual function—especially in menopausal women, DHEA remains a topic of debate. It’s banned in competitive sports and illegal in many countries, though still available in the U.S.
“The thing to remember about DHEA is that even though you can buy it over the counter, it’s not a vitamin—it’s a hormone,” says Lynda Romita, APN, a nurse practitioner in private practice in Connecticut. “And because it’s classified as a dietary supplement, it doesn’t go through the rigorous safety and effectiveness testing that prescription drugs do. Considering its powerful effects on hormone levels—and potential influence on heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer—DHEA should only be taken under medical supervision.”
Potential DHEA benefits
Bone health
Some studies suggest DHEA may help increase bone mineral density, particularly in postmenopausal women at risk for osteoporosis. Stronger bones mean a reduced risk of fractures in the hip, spine, and wrist, according to the Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine.
Mood and brain function
DHEA may help ease symptoms of depression by dampening activity in brain regions that generate negative emotions. However, not all studies agree.
Female sexual health
Some research shows that DHEA can improve vaginal dryness and sexual satisfaction in postmenopausal women.
Adrenal insufficiency
For people with adrenal disorders, DHEA may help relieve symptoms like fatigue and low libido.
It’s important to note that research on DHEA is mixed. While some people experience improvements in mood or libido, others report no benefits at all.
Risks and side effects
DHEA is not without downsides. Possible side effects include:
- Acne and oily skin
- Hair loss
- Insomnia or restlessness
- Mood swings or irritability
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Voice deepening and facial hair growth in women
Because DHEA is a hormone—and not subject to strict FDA oversight—its long-term safety hasn’t been firmly established. Use should always be supervised by a healthcare provider.
How to tell if your DHEA levels are low
Many symptoms of low DHEA overlap with other conditions, so self-diagnosing is not recommended. Possible signs include:
- Fatigue or low energy
- Low libido
- Depressed mood or anxiety
- Poor memory or concentration (“brain fog”)
- Loss of muscle mass or strength
- Dry skin
- Decreased bone density
- Frequent illness
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
You’re more likely to have low DHEA if you’re over 40, have an autoimmune disease, type 2 diabetes, anorexia, HIV, adrenal insufficiency, or are on long-term corticosteroids.
The best way to confirm low DHEA is through a DHEA-S blood test. This provides a clear picture of your hormone levels and whether supplementation might be appropriate.
How much should you take—and when?
There’s no one-size-fits-all dose. Common daily dosages include:
- 10–25 mgfor healthy adults
- 10–50 mgfor postmenopausal women
- 25–50 mgfor men over 40
- 25–40 mgfor adrenal insufficiency
It’s usually best to take DHEA in the morning, since natural levels peak early in the day. Taking it at night may cause insomnia. However, in certain cases—such as adrenal fatigue—nighttime dosing might support overnight repair processes.
The bottom line
DHEA is a powerful hormone with potential benefits—but also real risks. While it may help manage aging, hormonal imbalances, or specific medical issues, it’s not a cure-all. The science is still evolving, and what works for one person might not work for another.
Always talk to a healthcare provider before trying DHEA. It may be sold as a supplement, but it behaves like a hormone—and should be treated like one.
