Polymyalgia and low Dhea

[Patricia10]

Has anyone been treated with prednisalone and a dhea supplement. I read an article that attributed many ailments suffered by an older person as a result of low levels of this important hormone.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

The Society for Science Based Medicine has plenty to say on it:

sfsbm.org/wiki2/index.php?t...

which will save me writing for half an hour!

todaysdietitian.com/newarch...

The Mayo, on hte other hand, is short and to the point:

"Our take

Red light: Avoid

Avoid

While some research suggests that DHEA might be slightly helpful in treating osteoporosis, depression and vaginal atrophy, there's little evidence to support anti-aging claims. Also, DHEA use can cause serious side effects. Avoid using this supplement."

mayoclinic.org/drugs-supple...

[Mahnahvu]

In the States DHEA is an over-the-counter "supplement." I picked up a package last week, thinking it might help with the inactive adrenal glands. I used it occasionally while I was in my 40s. I recall back then that it boosted my libido. Doesn't do that now that I am over 60 and on Prednisone. Was thinking of discontinuing taking it, as I've read some of the same articles PMRpro posted above. The package even warns not to use if you have an enlarged prostate, which applies to me and most men my age.