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Other names:
Also known as dehydroepiandrosterone or "fountain of youth"
substance
What it is supposed to do:
Help burn fat, build muscle mass, boost libido, strengthen the immune
system, prevent heart disease, cancer and non-insulin dependent diabetes,
retard memory loss, help in the treatment of lupus, prevent or slow the
progression of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson diseases.
How it is supposed to work:
DHEA is produced by the adrenal gland and is a precursor to testosterone
and estrogen, so theoretically can increase testosterone levels and its
effects.
Toxic effects: (see Testosterone)
 | Oily skin, acne, extra growth of body hair |
| Irreversible breast enlargement in men |
| Liver enlargement |
| Aggressiveness |
| Possible increased risk for uterine cancer |
| Possible increased risk for prostate cancer |
Does it work?
Use of DHEA to slow or reverse the aging process, improve cognitive function,
promote weight loss, increase lean muscle mass, or slow the progression of
Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases has not been proven. However,
DHEA has been used successfully to treat systemic lupus erythematosis, improve
bone density in post-menopausal women, and improve symptoms of severe
depression. Some clinical studies demonstrate an improvement of well-being
in the elderly and an enhancement of the immune system.
Other information:
Because of the severe toxic effects, its use is not recommended.
Banned by many sporting agencies including the International Olympic
Committee, National Hockey League and National Football League.
References:
- Koch, JJ. Performance-enhancing substances and their use among adolescent
athletes. Pediatrics in Review. September 2002;23(9):310-7.
- Greydanus, DE and Patel, DR. Sports doping in the adolescent athlete: The
hope, hype and hyperbole. Pediatric Clinics of North America. August 2002;
49(4):829-55.
- Congeni, J and Miller, S. Supplements and drugs used to enhance athletic
performance. Pediatric Clinics of North America. April 2002; 49(2):435-61.
- Johnson, WA, Landry, GL. Nutritional supplements: Facts vs. fiction.
Adolescent Medicine State of the Arts Reviews. October 1998;9(3);501-513.
- Ahrendt, DM. Ergogenic aids: counseling the athlete. American Family
Physician. March 2001;63(5):913-22.
- Blue, JG and Lombardo, JA. Nutritional aspects of exercise: Steroids and
steroid-like compounds. Clinics in Sports Medicine. July 1999;18(3):667-687.
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