DHEA

An adrenal hormone serving as a precursor to other vital hormones

Often taken withVitamin D, Zinc

Evidence-backed benefits

How DHEA can help, goal by goal, with the studies behind each score.

Testosterone

18XP

Raises testosterone a little (about 28 ng/dL), relatively more in women.

Studies1 2 3 4

Menopause / Postmenopausal Health

9XP

Oral DHEA has not clearly improved libido or menopause symptoms; vaginal DHEA is a different, better-supported product.

Studies1 2 3 4 5

How to read XP

Each score is for this supplement and that specific goal, not a general rating.

XP combines how reliable the research is with how much difference it usually makes. Higher means stronger evidence for that supplement and that goal.

Limited<15 XPModest15–27 XPModerate28–44 XPReliable45–69 XPHigh70+ XP

Dosage

What studies commonly use for DHEA, and how it is usually taken.

Usual dose

25–50 mg per day

How to take it

Morning

See study range

25–50 mg/day (conservative starting dose is 25 mg/day)

Your journey

Testosterone comes first (week 4 → month 3); Menopause / Postmenopausal Health takes longest (week 8 → month 4). An estimate from the studies' timelines, not a promise: everyone responds differently.

Testosterone

Week 4 → Month 3

Menopause / Postmenopausal Health

Week 8 → Month 4

From the first noticeable effect to roughly full strength. Colour follows the XP tier of each benefit.

Make it a habit

These gains come from steady use, not a single dose. Keep DHEA in your routine for about month 4 before you judge it.

Safety

What to know before you take DHEA.

Safety rating

Check first

Serious risks are possible.

Acne, oily skin and hair lossCommon. Women may also get facial hair or a deeper voice.
Banned in competitive sportTriggers a positive drug test.

Check with a doctor first if you have or are at risk of prostate or breast cancer.

General information, not medical advice. If you are pregnant, take medication or have a health condition, check with a doctor or pharmacist first.