DHEA or Testosterone for Women?

by Pete Hueseman, RPh, PharmD
June 2003

brought to you by Bellevue Pharmacy, a ProjectAWARE sponsor

Dehydroepiandrosterone, more commonly known as "DHEA" and its sulfated form dehydropiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) are endogenous steroids, having a wide variety of biological and biochemical effects. Essentially, DHEA can be called the adrenal stress, immunity and longevity hormone.

DHEA can help anti-aging effects significant improvement of performance in the aged regulation of lean muscle mass production fat "burning" anti-depressant effects increased cognition memory and learning post menopausal benefits

In a study done in 1994, by Morales, Nolan, Nelson and Yen¹, 82% of the 17 women were found to show an increased sense of well-being after 12 weeks of administration. Well-being was reported as improved quality of sleep, better relaxation, increased energy, and better ability to handle stress. No difference was noted in libido, but 5 of the 17 did show improvements in preexisting joint pains and mobility during DHEA therapy at 50.mg per day. Most women and men above 40 years of age would benefit by using 25 to 50 mg per day in several ways.

Another study done by Dr. Cranton, M.D. showed that in women, correct levels of DHEA can convert into testosterone as the body needs, but men do not experience much conversion of DHEA into testosterone. In fact, after monitoring patients over 5 years, he showed that once the dose restored the DHEA to normal levels, energy levels increased, skin became thicker and moister, sleep was better and patients awakened rested. The patients felt 10 years younger and had significantly increased sex drive. At the pharmacy we have found that both men and women on the proper dose range of our product do very well and have less ups and downs as we help them fine-tune their natural "human identical" doses to fit them best.

Many women also require testosterone in the form of creams, gels, or sublinguals in order to fully balance their hormones, restore their libido and eliminate minor depression. In order to obtain a baseline reading it is advised to do a saliva or blood test before using hormones and periodically thereafter to check levels and keep them in range. When using the testosterone creams or gels to increase libido, we always suggest application to the area behind the knee continuing down the back of the calf and up the back of the thigh. If it causes any unwanted hair growth, then this is an area that can be shaved. Lastly, the testosterone "thick" gel 2% can be used locally, with directions as follows: Apply a small amount (Lentil pea size) to the clitoris and the surrounding area about one half hour before bedtime each night. This dose form is used by thousands of women with much reported success. Sometimes it is necessary to use two of the above forms in combination therapy to achieve the desired effects.

Reference:

Effects of Replacement Dose of Dehydroepiandrosterone in Men and Women of Advancing Age. Arlene J. Morales, John J. Nolan, Jerald C. Nelson, and Samuel S. C. Yen Department of Reproductive Medicine, University of California School of Medicine, LaJolla, California 92093-0802; and Nichols Institute Reference Laboratories, San Jaun Capistrano, California 92690. (J. Clin Endocrinol Metab 78:1360-1367, 1994)

For questions and further information, contact Bellevue Pharmacy.