In adults, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is the most abundant steroid found in serum and its levels fall with age. It can be converted into androgens and estrogens by peripheral tissues. Thus it may be considered to be a pro-hormone. Many websites are promoting oral DHEA as an anti-aging tonic and in some countries it is sold as a supplement. Recent clinical trials of oral DHEA and reviews of those trials have failed to show any health benefits for postmenopausal women. However, there may be a role for vaginal DHEA.
Keywords: DEHYDROEPIANDROSTERONE; DHEA; MENOPAUSE; SEXUAL FUNCTION; TRIAL.