Prescription
Prescription RequiredCompoundedDHEA Capsules
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a hormone your body makes naturally in the adrenal glands. These capsules are designed to help support healthy hormone levels that may decline with age. Your healthcare provider may suggest DHEA to support energy, mood, and overall well-being. Use only under the guidance of a qualified professional.
Requires a valid prescription from your provider. Not sure if it's right for you? Ask a pharmacist.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Compounded products are not FDA-approved and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary. This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice — always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment.
Clinical information
Medication information for patients and providers.
Use as directed by your healthcare provider. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time. Your provider will decide how long you should continue treatment.
DHEA is a precursor hormone. After you swallow a capsule, your body converts DHEA into other hormones such as testosterone and estrogen. This process can help restore hormone balance when natural levels fall. Most people feel changes in energy or mood within a few weeks, but full benefits may take 2–3 months. Effects last about 24 hours, so daily use is usually needed.
Do not use if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding (may affect hormone levels in the baby). Do not use if you have hormone-sensitive cancers such as breast, uterine, ovarian, or prostate cancer. Avoid if you have severe liver disease, uncontrolled thyroid problems, or are under 18 years old. Do not use if you are allergic to DHEA or any capsule ingredients.
DHEA can raise estrogen or testosterone and may interact with hormone replacement therapies, birth control pills, or anabolic steroids, increasing side-effect risk. It may enhance the effects of blood thinners like warfarin, raising bleeding risk. Diabetes medicines such as metformin or insulin may need dose changes because DHEA can alter blood sugar. High doses of corticosteroids may reduce DHEA effectiveness. Always tell your provider about all medicines, vitamins, or herbal products you use.
Very common (more than 1 in 10 people): mild acne or oily skin, especially at higher doses. Common (1–10 in 100): unwanted hair growth, mood changes (irritability or excitement), headache, stomach upset. Uncommon (1–10 in 1,000): deepening of the voice, menstrual changes, elevated blood pressure. Rare but serious: liver enzyme changes, severe mood swings, or rapid heartbeat—stop use and seek medical help right away. Most side effects improve after lowering the dose or stopping the medication.
Store at room temperature (68-77°F, 20-25°C) in a dry place away from heat and direct light. Keep capsules in their original, tightly closed container. Do not store in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink. Keep out of reach of children. Discard unused or expired capsules through a pharmacy take-back program or mix with coffee grounds in a sealed bag before putting in household trash.
Frequently asked questions.
Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water, with or without food, at the same time each day unless your provider tells you differently.
Many people feel a slight boost in energy or mood within a few weeks, but it can take 2–3 months to see full benefits. Keep regular follow-up visits so your provider can check your hormone levels.
Often yes, but DHEA can interact with hormone-like herbs such as maca, tribulus, or black cohosh. Share a full list of supplements with your provider before starting.
Women can use DHEA under medical supervision, but it is not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding and should be avoided if you have hormone-sensitive cancers.
Mild acne is common. Lowering the dose, keeping skin clean, and using over-the-counter acne wash often help. If acne becomes severe, talk to your provider.
Yes. Your provider may order blood tests to measure DHEA, testosterone, estrogen, and liver enzymes every few months to make sure the dose is right for you.
More in Hormone Replacement
View all →
Bring this to the bench.
Transfer an existing prescription, or have your prescriber send a new one.