DHEA (Prasterone)
DHEA is synthesized primarily in the adrenal cortex from cholesterol. Peripherally, it is converted by enzymes (3-beta-HSD, 17-beta-HSD, and aromatase) into active androgens (androstenedione, testosterone) and estrogens in a tissue-specific, dose-dependent manner. This intracrinology model means that androgenic and estrogenic effects vary substantially by tissue type. DHEA also has direct neurosteroid activity, modulating GABA-A and NMDA receptor function in the CNS.
Injectable esters release over days to weeks depending on the ester; oral agents act within hours. Hormonal effects accrue over weeks, and dosing is individualized by a clinician.
Oral capsule or tablet (supplement): store at controlled room temperature in a dry place. Intrarosa vaginal insert: store at room temperature; see product labeling.
Clinical Evidence
What the literature says
Pharmacokinetics
- Routes
- Oral
Citations (3)
Last reviewed: 2026-06-15
Research Guide
How users approach this compound
The following reflects patterns observed in research literature and community protocols. This is not medical advice and does not constitute a clinical recommendation.
Reported Uses
- FDA-approved vaginal insert for moderate to severe dyspareunia (vulvovaginal atrophy) due to menopause
- Widely used as an oral dietary supplement; evidence for systemic hormone optimization is mixed and largely from small or short-duration studies
Key Research Benefits
- FDA-approved vaginal formulation (Intrarosa) for moderate to severe dyspareunia caused by vulvovaginal atrophy due to menopause
- Serves as an endogenous precursor in steroidogenic pathways; tissue-specific conversion to active androgens and estrogens
Potential Side Effects
Considerations and Cautions
- Hormone-sensitive conditions (e.g., hormone receptor-positive cancers, benign prostatic hypertrophy)
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Pre-existing androgenic conditions (acne, hirsutism, polycystic ovary syndrome)
- Oral DHEA dietary supplements are not FDA-approved drugs; safety and efficacy data for systemic use are limited
Labs to monitor
Educational context only, not a testing mandate. Any bloodwork decisions belong with your clinician.
- Hematocrit / hemoglobin: DHEA conversion to testosterone carries erythrocytosis risk, particularly at higher doses.
- Estradiol (E2): DHEA aromatizes to estradiol; monitoring appropriate especially in males.
- PSA (prostate-specific antigen): Androgenic metabolites of DHEA may affect prostate; periodic monitoring appropriate.
- Lipid panel: Androgenic conversion may adversely affect HDL.
- Total testosterone / free testosterone: Confirms degree of androgenic conversion and avoids supratherapeutic levels.
Dose Calculator
Peptide Reconstitution Calculator
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Not medical advice
Information on DoseVault is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare provider.