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Semin Reprod Med 2006; 24(2): 097-105
DOI: 10.1055/s-2006-939568
Copyright © 2006 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Dehydroepiandrosterone Therapy as Female Androgen Replacement

Erin Saltzman1 , André Guay1
  • 1Center for Sexual Function, Lahey Clinic Northshore, One Essex Center Drive, Peabody, Massachusetts
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
24 April 2006 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is an abundant circulating androgen precursor preferentially produced by the adrenal glands. DHEA has been shown to exert its effects via downstream conversion to sex steroid hormones, neuromodulation, improvement in endothelial cell function, and possibly by acting on a cell membrane-bound receptor. Low levels of circulating DHEA have been demonstrated in women with diminished libido and other symptoms of sexual dysfunction. DHEA deficiency has also been associated with various drugs, and endocrine, nonhormonal, and age-related disorders. DHEA supplementation has been shown to produce beneficial effects in women with adrenal insufficiency. However, DHEA supplementation in healthy euadrenal subjects (including premenopausal and postmenopausal women with androgen insufficiency) is controversial; studies have yielded conflicting results regarding its beneficial effects on sexual function, metabolism, and overall well-being. Further research is needed to better elucidate the efficacy and safety of DHEA supplementation for the treatment of androgen insufficiency in women.

KEYWORDS

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) - female sexual dysfunction - androgen insufficiency

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André GuayM.D. 

Center for Sexual Function, Lahey Clinic Northshore, One Essex Center Drive, Peabody, MA 01960

Email: andre.t.guay@lahey.org

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