DHEA Safety Information

DHEA COMPOUND

What is this medicine?

Dehydroepiandrosterone (de-HYDRO-EP-ee-an-DRAW-stir-own) DHEA

▪ DHEA is a hormone that may be given to patients who no longer produce a sufficient amount on their

own.

▪ It may be used to maintain healthy bones.

▪ It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.


Compounded Drug Forms: tablet, fast-burst sublingual tablet, troche, suspension, suppository, cream, gel


What medical information should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

▪ Allergy to DHEA

▪ Active cancers of the breast, uterus, or prostate

▪ Are pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not use if you are breastfeeding

▪ Have kidney or liver problems

▪ Have blood sugar problems

▪ Have mental health problems

▪ Have uterine or ovarian problems

▪ Have recently had the TB Vaccine

▪ Have high blood pressure or cholesterol

▪ Are taking medications that may increase bleeding risk

▪ Have hirsutism or acne


How should I use this medicine?

Follow the package directions provided by Belmar Pharma Solutions and by your prescriber. Your dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Follow the dosing schedule provided carefully.


Oral dosage forms may be taken with or without food. If it upsets your stomach take it with a small meal.


Sublingual formulations should be placed under the tongue or between the cheek and gum and held in place until fully dissolved. Avoid swallowing saliva to ensure best absorption into the bloodstream. Avoid eating or drinking 15 minutes before or after taking sublingual formulations.


Topical products can be applied to the inner arm, upper inner thigh, backs of the knees, tops of the feet and inner wrists. It is recommended to rotate sites to ensure even retention of the hormone. Cover treated skin with clothes to avoid contact with people or pets.


Vaginal preparations should be inserted using your finger or the applicator provided. Suppositories may leak

and may be more convenient to use at bedtime.


What if I miss a dose?

▪ If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible.

▪ If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing

schedule.

▪ Do not take double the dose at once.


What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Belmar Pharma Solutions recommends yearly checkups with your provider.


What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Possible side effects that may occur and may go away as your body gets used to the medication include:

▪ Stomach upset

▪ Signs of testosterone excess (facial hair growth, voice deepening, or acne)

▪ Hair loss

▪ Headache

▪ Trouble sleeping

▪ Menstrual cycle changes

▪ Breast tenderness

▪ Testicular problems


Serious Side Effects:

Contact your doctor immediately or seek medical attention if you experience:

▪ Drastic mood changes

▪ Signs of high blood pressure

▪ Signs of low blood sugar

▪ Liver problems


You may experience side effects not listed. Contact your doctor with questions.


An allergic reaction to this medication is unlikely but seek medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic

reaction include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.


Where should I keep my medicine?

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F, unless otherwise specified on the packaging.

Additional Information:

▪ Do not share this medication with others.

▪ Keep out of reach of children and pets.

▪ If an overdose is suspected contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 or go to the nearest emergency room.


If you have any questions concerning this or any of your medications, a pharmacist is available during normal business hours to answer your questions. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.


Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer: This information should not be used to decide whether or not to take this medication or any other medication. Only the healthcare provider has the knowledge and training to decide which medicines are right for a specific patient. This information does not endorse any medicine as safe,

effective, or approved for treating any patient or health condition. This is only a brief summary of general information about this medicine. It does not include all information about the possible uses, directions, warnings, precautions, interactions, adverse effects, or risks that may apply to this medicine. For questions about the source of any of the information provided herein, pharmacists at Belmar Pharma Solutions are available. This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from the healthcare provider. You must talk with the healthcare provider for complete information about the risks and benefits of this medicine.


Do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain. Check with your pharmacist if you have questions about the best way to dispose of medications. There may be a drug take-back program in your area.


References:

1. Dehydroepiandrosterone. Lexi-Drugs. Lexicomp. Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. Riverwoods, IL. Available at: http://online.lexi.com. Accessed March 2023.

Was this article helpful?

That’s Great!

Thank you for your feedback

Sorry! We couldn't be helpful

Thank you for your feedback

Let us know how can we improve this article!

Select at least one of the reasons
CAPTCHA verification is required.

Feedback sent

We appreciate your effort and will try to fix the article