DHEA
Precursor hormone that declines sharply with age: supplementation is prescription-only in the UK.
What is DHEA?
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a hormone produced primarily by the adrenal glands. It serves as a precursor to both testosterone and oestrogen. DHEA production peaks in your mid-20s and declines by roughly 10% per decade thereafter, meaning a 60-year-old has approximately 20% of the DHEA they had at 25.
What does the evidence say?
A 2013 meta-analysis by Peixoto et al. in Maturitas found DHEA supplementation modestly increased testosterone in older men and reduced fat mass. A Cochrane review (Borst et al.) found inconsistent effects across studies. The hormone is a precursor, not testosterone itself, so actual T increases depend on individual conversion rates. Effects are more pronounced in men over 60 with confirmed low DHEA-S levels.
Good evidence from several studies, but with some limitations in size, duration, or methodology.
Dosage guide
| Effective dose | 25–50mg per day |
| Maximum dose | 100mg/day (though this is well above what most research uses) |
| Timing | Morning, with food. |
Best form to buy
Standard DHEA. The micronised form may offer better absorption.
Who benefits most
Older men (55+) with confirmed low DHEA-S levels via blood test. Not appropriate for men in their 30s or 40s with normal levels.
Side effects and safety
Can cause acne, oily skin, and hair loss in those predisposed. May increase oestrogen as well as testosterone, causing unwanted side effects in some men. Should be used under medical supervision.
“Important note for UK readers: DHEA is classified as a prescription-only medicine in the UK and is not legally sold over the counter. You can buy it privately from compounding pharmacies or online from overseas. If you're considering it, get your DHEA-S tested first and discuss with a doctor.”