Evidence supporting the use of: DHEA
For the health condition: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

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Synopsis

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

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) has been investigated for its potential role in supporting individuals with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Some scientific studies have examined the association between DHEA levels and PTSD symptoms, with the rationale that DHEA, an adrenal hormone, might help modulate the effects of stress and cortisol. Research has found that people with PTSD sometimes have altered levels of DHEA and its sulfate (DHEA-S), and some observational studies suggest higher DHEA/DHEA-S levels may be linked to less severe PTSD symptoms, possibly due to neuroprotective or anti-glucocorticoid effects.

However, clinical evidence for supplementing DHEA as a treatment for PTSD is limited. A few small-scale clinical trials and pilot studies (such as Yehuda et al., 2006) have explored this, but results are mixed and often underpowered. These studies sometimes report modest reductions in symptoms or improved resilience, but other trials fail to show significant benefit. There is not yet sufficient high-quality, large-scale evidence to support routine use of DHEA supplements for PTSD.

In summary, while there is a scientific rationale and some preliminary research, the evidence base is weak (rated 2/5) and DHEA is not an established or widely recommended treatment for PTSD. More rigorous research is needed to determine its efficacy and safety in this context.

More about DHEA
More about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Products containing DHEA

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