A basic understanding of the distinct metabolism, mechanism of action, and clinical use of
dehydroepiandrosterone and its metabolites is critical to balancing the
hormone milieu in postmenopausal women. To date, studies of
dehydroepiandrosterone therapy in women with
adrenal insufficiency suggest that they are the most likely group to gain health benefits from
dehydroepiandrosterone replacement
therapy. Our understanding of the potential long-term health benefits of replacing
dehydroepiandrosterone along with other deficient
hormones is still only in its infancy. With the evidence currently available, however, one can reasonably suggest that
dehydroepiandrosterone offers the promise of a safe and efficient replacement
therapy for specific symptoms common to postmenopausal women. This article reviews the metabolism, physiology, and clinical use of
dehydroepiandrosterone in postmenopausal women. The clinical effectiveness of
dehydroepiandrosterone for vulvovaginal
atrophy, sexual dysfunction,
osteoporosis, adrenal and immunological function,
cardiovascular disease, and, in combination,
hormone replacement therapy is reviewed. In addition, the use of the
dehydroepiandrosterone metabolite 7-keto-dehydroepiandrosterone for
weight loss is discussed.