DHEA and the menopause: a new approach to HRT?

Abstract

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is the major steroid product of the adrenal cortex yet it still remains controversial as to whether it is a true hormone. The regulation of DHEA is poorly understood and no specific receptor has been characterised. Despite this, the use of DHEA as an anti-ageing treatment outside medical supervision has been increasing over recent years as people attempt to restore the levels seen in early adulthood. DHEA has also been advocated as a possible treatment for menopause, with some practitioners even suggesting it as an alternative to standard hormone replacement therapy. The proponents of DHEA replacement therapy claim positive actions on cardiovascular and immune systems, together with beneficial effects on bone metabolism and mood. In fact, there have been very few well planned randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trials and there is very little clinical evidence to support the hope invested in this hormone. Further clinical trials are urgently needed.