The studied one
Micronized oral DHEA
Absorbs consistently, and it's the form used in most research.
Good for: Everyday use
What variations of DHEA exist?
A hormone made mainly by the adrenal glands that the body converts into testosterone and estrogen. Levels naturally fall with age. It comes in 3 forms, and they aren't all the same. Here's how they differ.
For education only. What's right for you depends on your health and your medications, so check with your provider before you start or switch. Book a consult
Our top pick
Every form, in plain words
The studied one
Micronized oral DHEA
Absorbs consistently, and it's the form used in most research.
Good for: Everyday use
The no-hormones one
7-Keto DHEA
Doesn't turn into sex hormones. Sold for metabolism, with limited research.
Usually skip
- Not actually DHEA ('Natural DHEA' from wild yam)Your body can't turn wild yam into DHEA.
Spotting a good one on the shelf
Look for
- Look for 'Micronized oral DHEA' on the label (the studied one)
Watch out for
- 'Natural DHEA from wild yam' claims
- Starting it without a DHEA-S blood test first
Check with your provider first if…
- You have a hormone-sensitive condition, such as breast, uterine, or ovarian cancer, endometriosis, or fibroids
- You have PCOS or high male-type hormones (it can raise testosterone, worsening acne and hair growth)
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have a mood disorder (it can cause irritability or mania in some people)
- You compete in sports: DHEA is banned
Ready to find the root cause?
Dr. Lesher is a Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on autoimmune and chronic conditions in women. Since 2020, she's helped hundreds of patients stop managing symptoms and start healing.