The Effect of Dehydroepiandrosterone on Allergic Inflammation

Scientists have known about dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) since the 1930s, but the steroid hormone has sparked great interest lately as a possible anti-aging therapy. Clinical studies have suggested many uses for DHEA, but its effect on allergic disorders such as inflammation are unclear.

DHEA And Allergic Inflammation

• According to the National Institutes of Health, scientists do theorize that DHEA can be used to treat allergic inflammation, but its use as allergy therapy has not been tested thoroughly in humans.

DHEA And Other Inflammation

• According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, people who are on anti-inflammatory steroids such as prednisolone should avoid DHEA. The hormone may increase the drug's effects.

Scientific Evidence

• DHEA has undergone clinical trials for a variety of uses. The hormone tested best as a therapy for adrenal deficiency, depression, obesity and lupus.

Unclear Scientific Evidence

• Scientists believe DHEA may also treat bone density, cardiovascular disease, infertility and impotence, and shows potential as an anti-aging skin therapy. Further study is needed, according to the National Institutes of Health.

Availability And Risk

• DHEA is available as a dietary supplement, but the Mayo Clinic warns that the hormone may increase the risk of hormonally sensitive cancers, such as cancer of the prostate, breast and ovaries.