Evidence supporting the use of: DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone)
For the health condition: Hot Flashes

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands and serves as a precursor to both androgens and estrogens. Its use for hot flashes, particularly in postmenopausal women, is based on the idea that declining levels of endogenous sex hormones contribute to menopausal symptoms, including vasomotor symptoms like hot flashes. Several small clinical trials have investigated DHEA supplementation for this purpose. Some studies have shown modest benefits, with reductions in the frequency or severity of hot flashes, while others have found no significant difference compared to placebo.

A 2006 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial published in Menopause found no significant reduction in hot flashes with DHEA supplementation compared to placebo. Conversely, other studies such as those published in Fertility and Sterility, have suggested mild improvements in menopausal symptoms, but sample sizes were small and methodologies varied. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses generally conclude that evidence is inconsistent and insufficient to recommend DHEA as a standard treatment for hot flashes.

In summary, while there is a scientific rationale and some limited clinical investigation into DHEA for hot flashes, the overall quality and consistency of evidence is low, with most guidelines not recommending its use for this indication. Potential risks, including androgenic side effects, should also be considered.

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