Can lead to insomnia.
May affect blood sugar levels. People with severe diabetes should not use DHEA; others
should monitor blood sugar levels carefully.
May increase the risk of bleeding or blood clotting.
May alter heart rate or rhythms.
May cause fatigue, nasal congestion, headache, acne, and rapid and irregular heartbeat.
May cause agitation, delusions, nervousness, irritability, or psychosis and may induce
hypomanic, aggressive, psychotic, or disinhibited behavior.
In people with bipolar disorder, DHEA should be used with caution and only in low doses
because it can exacerbate mania, irritability, and aggression.
People with a history of abnormal heart rhythms, blood clots or problems with clotting,
or a history of liver disease, serious diabetes or hyperglycemia, high cholesterol, thyroid
disorders, or other serious endocrine (hormonal) abnormalities should avoid DHEA
Children should not use DHEA, nor should it be used during pregnancy or breast feeding.While 7-keto DHEA may not cause the same hormonal side effects, there isn’t enough research
to prove its efficacy or side effects.
CONCLUSION
Each consumer needs to make a risk-versus-reward decision about DHEA. MHA urges caution
because the evidence of efficacy is weak and the potential side effects and drug interactions are
significant. More study is needed before 7-keto DHEA can be recommended as an alternative,
but it may be prudent to consider it prior to studies substantiating the claims being made, in
order to reduce risk.