DHEA

[dentjazz]

I have a very low DHEA result and have been told to take a DHEA supplement. The same for Progesterone. This is in order to sort my Adrenals before I proceed on to NDT. Since I am post menopausal I am questioning the use of these hormones. Has anyone had any experience with these supplements?

[helvella Administrator Thyroid UK]

Where in the world are you?

This is a critical piece of information, as DHEA itself is a controlled drug in the UK. But readily available in some other countries.

Suggest you add your country to your profile.

[Hidden]

I have not heard about progesterone being used to support the adrenal glands. I take it from your post that you have been diagnosed with adrenal fatigue?As far as I know, progesterone is used in peri-menopausal women as of their mid-30s when progesterone levels drop more rapidly than estrogen levels, leading to a condition known as estrogen dominance. It´s also used alongside estradiol to treat symptoms related to menopause. There are some alternative practitioners who believe women remain estrogen dominant even post menopause as estrogen continues to be made from fat cells but, once again, I don´t see how this could support the adrenal glands.

Many doctors treating adrenal fatigue recommend adding DHEA to hydrocortisone/prednisolone as DHEA and cortisol need to balance each other, one being catabolic and the other one anabolic.

DId your doctor give you a prescription, or are you supposed to buy them yourself? DHEA is sold OTC in the US but not in Europe as far as I know. I can be ordered on many sites, but customs may confiscate it.

There is much debate about how much DHEA to take. Some doctors recommend starting with as little as 5 mg daily and build up slowly, others recommend taking 20 or 25 mg daily from day one. Too much DHEA can cause oily skin, acne, and increased facial hair in women, due to increased testosterone levels. So I think it should only be used under the supervision of a knowledgeable practitioner.

[SeasideSusie Remembering]

dentajazz

I have a very low DHEA result and have been told to take a DHEA supplement.

Presumably a medical professional told you this? If so why are they not prescribing it and monitoring you.

Since I am post menopausal I am questioning the use of these hormones.

Have you discussed this with the person concerned?

[Lizzo30]

DHEA is a very good suppliment imo I take a small dose every few days progesterone is also good as long as it's natural progesterone