DHEA
Dehydroepiandrosterone
What the evidence shows
An adrenal hormone precursor that declines steeply with age. Supplementation reliably raises DHEA-S levels, but downstream conversion to testosterone is inconsistent between individuals — some men see meaningful T increases, many see none. Best evidence exists for older men with clinically low DHEA-S, not younger men with normal levels.
How it's thought to work
Precursor hormone that can be converted peripherally into testosterone and estradiol via steroidogenic enzymes — but the conversion rate varies significantly by individual.
Typical Dosage
25–50mg/day, ideally after confirming low DHEA-S via bloodwork.
Safety Notes
Can raise estradiol in some men; monitor if using long-term. Not recommended without a baseline blood test given individual variability in response.
Want the full clinical breakdown?
DHEA is the most abundant circulating hormone in young men — declining 80% by age 70. Supplementation converts to testosterone and estradiol, with modest but real effects in older men.
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