DHEA Supplement
This supplement is similar to a hormone, which the body produces naturally as well and as a prescription goes under the name of Prestara, Fidelin and Fluasterone.
It is banned in competitive sports and not tolerated for the use of athletes, by both college and olympic committees!
Supplement versions are manufactured from wild Mexican yam. It is also available as a dietary supplement to treat aging, or to treat female, or male, complaints. There are no evidences to support these claims though, and prior to taking it, talk to your physician!
DHEA
Dehydroepiandrosterone
Origin:
An androgen steroid hormone naturally produced in the body by the adrenal glands. Do not confuse 7-Keto DHEA with DHEA.
Dosage:
Capsule and tablets available both as prescription (200 mg) and non-prescription (10-, 15- or 25-mg) products; typically 200 mg for lupus. Do not take doses higher than 25 mg without advice from a physician. Effects of long-term use are unknown.
Claims:
Helps control lupus flares; increases the blood level of DHEA. What we know: Natural DHEA levels have been found to be low in people with RA and lupus, particularly in postmenopausal women, as well as men with ankylosing spondylitis, perhaps due to corticosteroid use. DHEA may help regulate the immune system and control inflammation.
Studies:
In people with lupus, DHEA treatment may reduce disease activity and flares. Studies found it allowed doctors to lower women’s corticosteroid dosages. DHEA also appeared to counteract bone loss caused by medication and increase bone density. Long-term safety, overall effectiveness and appropriate dosages have not been established.
DHEA side effects:
Stomach upset, abdominal pain and high blood pressure, as well as acne. It also decreases levels of ‘good’ cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein, or HDL) and may cause facial hair growth, voice deepening and changes in menstrual pattern. DHEA can also increase insulin resistance for people with diabetes, and exacerbate liver disease. Use is contra-indicated in men with prostate cancer and women with uterine fibroids.
~Arthritis Foundation.
Supplements of DHEA should not be given to teenagers, children, or infants. The use of this hormone is often not recommended in healthy young adults, below the age of 30 years.
I found some possible interactions DHEA could have with other medications, like:
-alprazolam, triazolam, or other medications for sleep or for anxiety
-spirin, ASA
-cilostazol
-clopidogrel
-male hormones (such as methyltestosterone or testosterone)
-female hormones (such as estrogens or progestins)
-birth control hormones (such as birth control pills, implants or injections)
-corticosteroids (such as prednisone)
-fertility treatments (such as clomiphene, leuprolide, or other hormone injections)
-medications for the treatment of diabetes
-saw palmetto
-ticlopidine
-warfarin
Caffeine, alcohol, or smoking, may have an affect as well on the working of this medication and/or supplement.
To be honest with you, after reading all this, I would not recommend taking it, unless your doctor prescribes it to you. It all sounds too iffy to me and the negative side-effects seem to be as great as the positive effects this supplement may have. But…, that is my opinion on it and I am more then willing to discuss it.
We all have our opinions and understandings, which is good. As long as we are willing to discuss and listen to each other. By considering and respecting each other’s opinions and thoughts, we may come to a better and more full understanding.
We may not fully understand the meaning of God’s word. That does not make it less true though. Discussions and sharing opinions and understandings, may lead to more knowledge and wisdom.
We all may have a tiny part of the truth. Let’s share this in and with love. Untill that day, when we will know in full. 
Colossians 2:2
that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, and attaining to all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ,
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