Difference Between DHEA and DHEA-S

Full Name

Dehydroepiandrosterone

Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate

Type of Hormone

Steroid hormone

Steroid hormone

Production Location

Produced mainly in the adrenal glands

Produced mainly in the adrenal glands and to a lesser extent in the ovaries, testes, and liver

Secretion Pattern

Secreted in a diurnal (daily) rhythm

Secreted in a diurnal (daily) rhythm

Circulating Form

Circulates in the bloodstream

Circulates in the bloodstream as a sulfated form

Biological Role

Precursor hormone for sex hormones (estrogen, testosterone)

Precursor hormone for sex hormones (estrogen, testosterone) and has additional physiological effects

Age-related Decline

Levels decline with age

Levels decline with age

Conversion Relationship

Converted to DHEA-S in the body

Converted to DHEA in the body, which can then be further converted to sex hormones

Measurement

Measured as free DHEA in blood or saliva

Measured as DHEA-S in blood

Diagnostic Relevance

May be measured to assess adrenal function

May be measured to assess adrenal function and as a marker of overall DHEA levels

Clinical Applications

Supplementation for various conditions (e.g., hormone imbalance,aging-related symptoms)

Limited clinical applications primarily used as an indicator of adrenal function

Potential Health Effects

May affect mood, energy, libido, muscle strength, and overall well-being

May have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects

Safety Considerations

Long-term effects and optimal dosages require further research

Generally considered safe when used appropriately and under medical supervision