DHEA levels should be checked through blood tests and dosage adjusted to maintain the
high-normal range for healthy adults.
periodic assays of serum testosterone and estradiol levels should be performed and
DHEA dosage adjusted to preclude excessive increases in either hormone, and
treatment should be discontinued if no benefit is observed after approximately three
months.
Of all the sources consulted, only Brown et al. discuss 7-keto DHEA and the possibility
that it could limit the hormonal side effects of DHEA.
- DOSAGE:
Brown et al. conclude, from their clinical experience: “In most patients, energy
improves on 25 to 50 mg per day. For the treatment of depression, 75 to 100 mg per
day and occasionally higher doses may be needed."
According to Mischoulon and Rosenbaum, doses have generally been in the range of 25
to 100 mg per day, or higher, with clinical trials using doses as low as 5 mg a day up to
as high as 7 g per day and very little dosage comparison in the literature. Existing
research supports an average dose of 50 mg in order to maintain the high-normal
range for healthy adults. The Natural Standard states that commonly used doses range
from 25 to 200 mg per day.
Generally, these doses are divided into two or three doses, with the larger dose given in
the morning to mimic the circadian rhythm. Doses late in the evening (after six to eight
p.m., depending on bed time) may cause insomnia.
Topical (on the skin) application and intravenous (into the veins) injections have also
been studied, but safety and effectiveness have not been proven.
- RESEARCH: There is widespread concern about long-term use of DHEA absent better
evidence of safety and effectiveness. Research needs to consider long-term as well as short-
term effects and needs to catch up with consumer use. There is a particularly great need for
study of 7 - keto DHEA.
