DHEA Deficiency and Treatment
endocrineonline.org
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia
DHEA deficiency and treatment
An information sheet on DHEA deficiency and treatment
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is one of the most abundant substances made by the adrenal gland. It is the precursor of the sex steroids oestrogen and testosterone. A small amount of DHEA is also made by the ovaries. Individuals with a deficiency of the pituitary gland, the adrenal gland or ovaries have low circulating concentrations of DHEA. Recent studies have shown that treatment of DHEA deficiency can be beneficial. In earlier years it was thought sufficient for well -being to replace only the major hormones made by the adrenal gland - cortisol is replaced by hydrocortisone and aldosterone by fludrocortisone. DHEA has weak male hormone effects and a lack of DHEA is thought to contribute to fatigue, poor concentration and diminished overall well -being. It is only very recently that good quality scientific studies have shown that replacing DHEA, particularly in women, improved these symptoms