DHEA is available from numerous manufacturers in various strengths and forms (e.g. oral capsule, sublingual pill). Since DHEA is classified by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a supplement rather than a drug, it is not held to the rigorous standards of most pharmaceuticals.  There are no clear dosing guidelines or studies to show efficacy/toxicity.  In addition, there is no recommended daily allowance (RDA) for this supplement as there is for common vitamins and minerals (e.g. Vitamin C, Magnesium).

Dosage- Some authors advise checking a DHEA level before administration of the supplement, but this is not done uniformly.  One author (11) recommends starting women on 5-15 mg/day and men on 10-30 mg/day. One concern is the elevation of DHEA levels to supraphysiologic levels.  This may raise the risk of adverse events.  It should be noted that 50mg and 100mg preparations are easily available and do not require a prescription.

Since DHEA is fat soluble, it is considered best to take it with meals.

Production of DHEA by the adrenal glands occurs maximally in the morning. Thus, some authors have advocated administration of the supplement in the morning.

Drug interactions-

Again, no definitive studies have been done to confirm drug-drug interactions with the use of DHEA, but the following have been recommended as important considerations.

• Estrogen Replacement (HRT): The dose of estrogen may need to be reduced owing the the possibility of DHEA being converted into estrogen.

• Aspirin: DHEA can act as a mild blood thinner; therefore, aspirin and other anti-coagulant dosages may need to be decreased.

• Cardiovascular Drugs: DHEA's effect on the cardiovascular system has not been well studied, and thus caution is advised in cardiac patients.

• HIV Medication:  DHEA has been noted to enhance effectiveness of AZT; however, studies in humans are needed before DHEA can be used for this purpose. (12)

• Barbiturates:  Animal studies suggest that DHEA may increase effectiveness of barbiturates. (14)

• Cisplatin:  An animal study indicates that DHEA may increase the effectiveness of an anti-cancer medication known as cisplatin. (15)