DHEA — Adrenal steroid hormone / neurosteroid precursor
Precursor to androgens and estrogens. Converts to androstenedione → testosterone/estradiol. Also acts directly as a neurosteroid, modulating GABA-A and NMDA receptors. Declines 70-80% from peak (age 25) to age 70.
Overview
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Compound Class
Adrenal steroid hormone / neurosteroid precursor
Mechanism of Action
Precursor to androgens and estrogens. Converts to androstenedione → testosterone/estradiol. Also acts directly as a neurosteroid, modulating GABA-A and NMDA receptors. Declines 70-80% from peak (age 25) to age 70.
Regulatory Status
Dietary supplement (oral); FDA-approved as Intrarosa (vaginal)
Evidence Level
Moderate — FDA-approved for vaginal atrophy; mixed evidence for other indications