DHEA
Meaning of DHEA: DHEA is a steroid hormone made mainly by the adrenal glands that serves as a building block for testosterone and estrogen.
Definition of DHEA
DHEA, short for dehydroepiandrosterone, is a steroid hormone produced mainly by the adrenal glands, with smaller amounts produced by the gonads and brain. It functions largely as a precursor, meaning the body converts it into other hormones, including testosterone and estrogen, rather than DHEA acting directly on tissue to the same extent as these downstream hormones.
Natural DHEA levels tend to be highest in young adulthood and decline gradually with age, a pattern that has led to interest in whether taking DHEA as a supplement might offset some effects of aging, though this remains an area of ongoing research rather than an established, proven use.
DHEA is available over the counter as a dietary supplement in some countries, marketed for a variety of purposes, though the evidence supporting many of these specific claimed benefits is limited, and DHEA supplementation can affect natural hormone levels in ways that are still being studied.
Also known as
Used in a sentence
The patient reported taking a DHEA supplement in addition to prescribed medication.
Good to know
DHEA is sold over the counter as a supplement in some countries despite functioning as a hormone precursor, a distinction relevant to evaluating claims made about its supplement use compared with regulated hormone therapy.