DHEA

hormone · nervous · endocrine · Oral · Transdermal

DHEA, a hormone. Most abundant adrenal steroid in humans. Precursor to androgens (testosterone) and estrogens (estrone, estradiol) via 3β-HSD and… Oral half-life 24 h.

Most abundant adrenal steroid in humans. Precursor to androgens (testosterone) and estrogens (estrone, estradiol) via 3β-HSD and aromatase. Also a neurosteroid — modulates GABA-A and NMDA. Levels decline ~80% from peak (age 20) to age 70 — rationale for postmenopausal supplementation, though clinical effects are modest.

Pharmacokinetics

• Oral — t½ 24 h · F 60% · Vd 56 L

Sources: PMID:15037408