Last reviewed · How we verify
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEAS)
DHEA-S is an endogenous steroid hormone precursor that acts as a substrate for sex hormone synthesis and modulates immune and metabolic function.
DHEA-S is an endogenous steroid hormone precursor that acts as a substrate for sex hormone synthesis and modulates immune and metabolic function. Used for Age-related decline in DHEA-S levels (Phase 3), Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or autoimmune conditions (investigational).
At a glance
| Generic name | Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEAS) |
|---|---|
| Also known as | DHEAS |
| Sponsor | Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taiwan |
| Drug class | Endogenous steroid hormone / Adrenal hormone replacement |
| Target | Androgen receptor, Estrogen receptor (indirect via peripheral conversion) |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Endocrinology / Immunology / Aging |
| Phase | Phase 3 |
Mechanism of action
Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) is a weak androgen and estrogen precursor produced primarily by the adrenal glands. It serves as a substrate for the synthesis of testosterone and estrogen in peripheral tissues, and also exerts direct effects on immune cell function, bone metabolism, and metabolic homeostasis through both classical steroid receptor pathways and non-genomic signaling mechanisms.
Approved indications
- Age-related decline in DHEA-S levels (Phase 3)
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or autoimmune conditions (investigational)
Common side effects
- Acne
- Hirsutism or androgenic effects
- Headache
- Insomnia
- Mood changes
Key clinical trials
- Investigating Novel Interventions for Low Back Pain in US Military Veterans: A Randomized Controlled Adaptive Phase II Trial (PHASE2)
- Allostatic Load Assessment Using Hair Cortisol and Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate Concentration in Patients Affected by Periodontal Disease (NA)
- Efficacy and Safety of Slow Release Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA ) (PHASE2)
- Vaginal DHEA to Improve Vaginal Health After Radiation for Women With Gynecologic, Anal or Rectal Cancer (PHASE2)
- Neurobiological Mechanisms of Stress in Youth With Chronic Widespread Pain (NA)
- Peri-Implant Sulcus Fluid Stress Markers in Health and Disease
- Growth Hormone and Dehydroepiandrosterone Role in Vitro Fertilization (PHASE2, PHASE3)
- Effects of DHEA in Pulmonary Hypertension (PHASE2)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |