What does DHEA do for lupus?

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a hormone in the body. People with lupus tend to have lower levels of DHEA, so taking DHEA supplements in pill form may help control the immune system. DHEA might also cut the need for corticosteroid treatment which means less side effects from corticosteroids.

Is DHEA good for autoimmune disease?

While it remains unclear whether DHEA levels are reduced before or after autoimmune disease onset, these observations suggest that DHEA promotes pathways that dampen chronic pro-inflammatory immune responses and foster maintenance of self-tolerance.

Why should men with lupus not take DHEA?

DHEA leads to the production of androgen and estrogen, which are sex hormones that play an important role in the reproductive systems of both men and women. Interestingly, studies have shown that people who have SLE, have lower levels of DHEA compared to people who do not have SLE.

Who should not take DHEA?

People who have heart problems, liver disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, thyroid problems, polycystic ovary syndrome, and a history of clotting problems should not use DHEA. DHEA may increase the risk of some cancers that are affected by hormones, like cancers of the breast, ovaries, and prostate.

Do you need a prescription for DHEA?

Using vaginal inserts containing DHEA can reduce pain during sex by up to 15% after menopause. A prescription DHEA product is available for this condition.

Can hormone imbalance cause autoimmune?

However, we can sometimes connect autoimmune diseases to hormone imbalances in the thyroid in the opposite direction. Some of the most common thyroid problems occur as a result of autoimmune diseases. Thyroid hormone imbalances are therefore more likely to be an effect of autoimmune diseases rather than the cause.

Can DHEA be harmful?

Safety and side effects DHEA is a hormone. Use of this supplement might increase levels of androgen and have a steroid effect. DHEA also might increase the risk of hormone-sensitive cancers, including prostate, breast and ovarian cancers. If you have any form of cancer or are at risk of cancer, don’t use DHEA.

Should DHEA be taken in the morning or evening?

Your body makes DHEA primarily in the morning, so taking DHEA in the morning will mimic this natural rhythm.

Is DHEA safe to take daily?

It’s best to speak with a physician before beginning to take a DHEA supplement. Summary: A common daily dose is 25–50 mg. This dosage has been safely used for up to two years without severe side effects.