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Sustained Release DHEA

Time-Release DHEA, Extended-Release DHEA, Micronized Sustained Release DHEA

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Meta Information

ID:sustained-release-dhea
Name:Sustained Release DHEA
Schema Version:1.5

Alternate Names

  • Time-Release DHEA
  • Extended-Release DHEA
  • Micronized Sustained Release DHEA

Active Compound

dehydroepiandrosterone

Intervention Type

therapeutic_agent

Delivery

Route:
oral
Scope:
  • systemic

Regulatory Status

  • us:dietary_supplement
  • ca:controlled_substance
  • au:controlled_substance
  • uk:controlled_substance

Indication

Focus:
healthspan
Description:
Aims to restore youthful levels of the adrenal steroid hormone DHEA, potentially supporting metabolic health, mood, and libido with age.

Typical Protocol

  • Typical doses range from 10-50 mg taken once daily, usually in the morning to mimic natural circadian rhythms.
  • The sustained-release formulation is designed to provide a more stable, physiological release profile over 24 hours.
  • Blood levels of DHEA-S and downstream hormones (testosterone, estradiol) should be monitored to guide dosing.

Expected Cost Mean

Low Cost:
15
High Cost:
40
Cost Type:
monthly
Description:
Widely available as an over-the-counter supplement in the US; not covered by insurance.

Summary

DHEA is a precursor hormone that declines significantly with age. Supplementation aims to restore youthful levels, which may influence downstream hormones like testosterone and estrogen. The sustained-release formulation is designed to mimic the body's natural diurnal rhythm, avoiding the sharp spikes and rapid clearance of immediate-release versions, potentially leading to more stable physiological effects and better tolerance.

Purpose

Restores youthful levels of a key precursor hormone.

Card Summary

A sustained-release form of the adrenal hormone DHEA, used to counteract age-related decline and support metabolic and hormonal balance.

Drug Class

steroid_hormone_precursor

Drugs In Class

Empty Array

Impact

Score:
4.2
Justification:
Provides targeted hormonal support for deficient individuals, but lacks broad healthspan extension evidence.

Evidence

Grade:
B
Score:
5.5
Justification:
Multiple human trials exist, but results are inconsistent and often show limited benefits.

Safety

Score:
4.5
Justification:
As a hormone precursor, it can cause androgenic or estrogenic side effects.

Flags

  • Can increase estrogen and testosterone levels; not recommended for individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers.
  • Potential side effects include acne, hair loss, mood changes, and unwanted hair growth.
  • Banned by many sports organizations (WADA) as a performance-enhancing anabolic agent.
  • Regular blood testing of DHEA-S, testosterone, and estradiol is recommended to guide dosing.
  • Legal status varies globally; it is a controlled substance in many countries outside the US.

Verdict

Consider for documented deficiency under medical guidance; evidence for general healthspan is weak.

Created

2026-06-12T17:52:14.533294Z

Ai Model

Gemini 2.5 Pro (High)