Dehydroepiandrosterone

Generic Details

Generic Name

Dehydroepiandrosterone

Other Names

  • DHEA

Drug Class

  • Endogenous steroid hormone
  • Androgen
  • Precursor hormone

Chemical Formula

C19H28O2

Molecular Weight

288.43 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Acts as a precursor to sex hormones such as testosterone and estrogen

Indications

  • Adrenal insufficiency
  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Aging issues

Common Dosage Forms

  • Oral tablets
  • Capsules
  • Topical creams

Typical Dosage

  • 25-200 mg per day orally

Pediatric Dosage

  • Not established

Geriatric Dosage

  • Lower starting doses may be recommended

Side Effects

  • Acne
  • Hair loss
  • Insomnia
  • Headache
  • Oily skin

Contraindications

  • Pregnancy
  • Breastfeeding
  • Prostate cancer
  • Hormone-sensitive conditions

Pregnancy Category

  • Not recommended during pregnancy

Lactation Safety

  • Not recommended during breastfeeding

Drug Interactions

  • Hormone replacement therapies
  • Testosterone
  • Oral anticoagulants

Overdose Symptoms

  • Fatigue
  • Muscle weakness
  • Increased cholesterol levels

Antidote for Overdose

  • No specific antidote

Storage Conditions

  • Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Rapidly absorbed after oral administration
  • Distribution: Mainly bound to serum albumin and lipoproteins
  • Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver
  • Excretion: Excreted in urine as metabolites

Precautions

  • Monitor hormone levels regularly
  • Use with caution in individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions

Warnings

  • Avoid long-term use without medical supervision

Others

  • Consult healthcare provider before use for individualized recommendations