Over the counter
Published: human trials
Established use
DHEA: dosing, timing and what to expect
An adrenal precursor hormone that converts to both androgens and estrogens. Available over the counter in the US as a supplement; declines steadily with age.
Also known as Dehydroepiandrosterone
Quick reference. Everything you need to run DHEA —
dosing, frequency, reconstitution math for the vial sizes people actually buy,
and what it stacks with. For anything specific to your situation,
ask the Guru.
DHEA quick start
- Route
- Oral
- Typical dose
- 25–50 mg
- Frequency
- Daily
- Half-life
- About 12 hours for the sulfated form (DHEA-S).
- Cycle
- Continuous with periodic labs.
These are the numbers people actually run, drawn from the published record and from
what the community has settled on over time. Educational reference, not medical
advice — a starting point to work from, and one you can adjust as you learn how you
respond.
How to run it
- How often
- Daily
- Cycle length
- Continuous with periodic labs.
- Half-life
- About 12 hours for the sulfated form (DHEA-S).
- Route
- Oral
Consistency matters more than perfect timing. Pick a slot in your day you will
actually keep, and let DoseIQ handle the rest.
For women
Women typically run 10–25 mg/day — above 25 mg, acne and unwanted hair growth get common. Vaginal prasterone (6.5 mg nightly) is a separate, approved product for menopausal genitourinary symptoms.
What to expect
Most people tolerate DHEA well. Here is what is worth knowing going in, so nothing catches you by surprise.
OTC in the US but banned in many other countries and by WADA. Converts to estrogen as well as testosterone, so it can raise E2. Can cause acne and hair loss. Monitor DHEA-S levels rather than guessing.
Preparing it
DHEA does not need reconstituting — it comes ready to use.
Not applicable — oral capsule.
This page is an educational research reference and is not medical advice. Dose figures reflect the published record and what the community has converged on — starting points to weigh, not instructions. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any protocol.