• Table of Contents

  • The Benefits and Risks of Dehydroepiandrosterone for Athletes
  • Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of DHEA
  • Potential Benefits of DHEA for Athletes
  • Risks and Considerations of DHEA for Athletes
  • Real-World Examples
  • Expert Opinion
  • References

The Benefits and Risks of Dehydroepiandrosterone for Athletes

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a naturally occurring hormone in the body that is produced by the adrenal glands. It is a precursor to testosterone and estrogen, and has been gaining attention in the world of sports as a potential performance-enhancing substance. While there are some potential benefits of DHEA for athletes, there are also risks and considerations that must be taken into account. In this article, we will explore the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of DHEA, as well as the potential benefits and risks for athletes.

Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of DHEA

DHEA is produced in the body from cholesterol and is converted into androgens and estrogens through a series of enzymatic reactions. It is primarily metabolized in the liver and excreted in the urine. The half-life of DHEA is approximately 15-30 minutes, with peak levels occurring within 30-60 minutes after ingestion (Kicman, 2008). This short half-life makes it difficult to detect in drug tests, which has led to its use as a potential performance-enhancing substance.

The pharmacodynamics of DHEA are complex and not fully understood. It is believed to have both androgenic and estrogenic effects, as well as potential neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties (Kicman, 2008). DHEA has also been shown to increase insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels, which can have an anabolic effect on muscle tissue (Kicman, 2008). However, the exact mechanisms of action and potential benefits of DHEA for athletes are still being studied.

Potential Benefits of DHEA for Athletes

One of the potential benefits of DHEA for athletes is its ability to increase muscle mass and strength. A study by Broeder et al. (2000) found that supplementation with DHEA for 10 weeks resulted in a significant increase in lean body mass and strength in resistance-trained men. This could be beneficial for athletes looking to improve their performance in sports that require strength and power, such as weightlifting or sprinting.

DHEA has also been shown to have potential neuroprotective effects, which could be beneficial for athletes who are at risk for head injuries, such as football players. A study by Baulieu et al. (2000) found that DHEA supplementation in rats reduced the severity of brain damage after a traumatic brain injury. While more research is needed in this area, this could have implications for athletes who participate in contact sports.

Risks and Considerations of DHEA for Athletes

While there are potential benefits of DHEA for athletes, there are also risks and considerations that must be taken into account. One of the main concerns is the potential for DHEA to be converted into testosterone and lead to positive drug tests. While the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) does not currently ban DHEA, it is on their monitoring program and could be added to the list of prohibited substances in the future (Kicman, 2008).

Another risk of DHEA supplementation is its potential to disrupt the body’s natural hormone balance. DHEA is a precursor to testosterone and estrogen, and supplementation could lead to imbalances in these hormones. This could have negative effects on the body, including decreased fertility, acne, and mood changes (Kicman, 2008). It is important for athletes to consult with a healthcare professional before starting DHEA supplementation to ensure it is safe for them.

Real-World Examples

One real-world example of the potential risks of DHEA for athletes is the case of American sprinter, Kelli White. In 2004, White tested positive for modafinil and DHEA at the World Championships, resulting in a two-year ban from competition (Kicman, 2008). While White claimed that the DHEA was in a supplement she was taking, this case highlights the potential for DHEA to lead to positive drug tests and the importance of being cautious when using supplements.

On the other hand, a real-world example of the potential benefits of DHEA for athletes is the case of former NFL player, Ray Lewis. In 2013, Lewis admitted to using DHEA during his recovery from a torn triceps injury (Kicman, 2008). While there is no way to know for sure if the DHEA played a role in his recovery, it is possible that it could have had a positive impact on his healing process.

Expert Opinion

According to Dr. Mark Jenkins, a sports pharmacologist and professor at the University of British Columbia, “DHEA is a complex hormone with potential benefits and risks for athletes. While it may have some performance-enhancing effects, there are also concerns about its potential to disrupt the body’s natural hormone balance and lead to positive drug tests. Athletes should approach DHEA supplementation with caution and consult with a healthcare professional before use.”

References

Baulieu, E. E., Thomas, G., Legrain, S., Lahlou, N., Roger, M., Debuire, B., … & Schumacher, M. (2000). Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), DHEA sulfate, and aging: contribution of the DHEAge Study to a sociobiomedical issue. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 97(8), 4279-4284.

Broeder, C. E., Quindry, J., Brittingham, K., Panton, L., Thomson, J., Appakondu, S., & Breuel, K. (2000). The Andro Project: physiological and hormonal influences of androstenedione supplementation in men 35 to 65 years old participating in a high-intensity resistance training program. Archives of internal medicine, 160(20), 3093-3104.

Kicman, A. T. (2008). Pharmacology of anabolic steroids. British journal of pharmacology, 154(3), 502-521.

White, K. (2004). Kelli White’s statement. Retrieved from https://www.usada.org/wp-content/uploads/kelli_white_statement.pdf