If you are currently being treated with any of the following medications, you
should not use DHEA without first talking to your healthcare provider.
AZT (Zidovudine)
In a laboratory study, DHEA enhanced the
effectiveness of an HIV medication known as AZT. However, scientific studies in
humans are needed before DHEA can be used for this purpose in people.
Barbiturates
Animal studies suggest that DHEA may increase the
effects of barbiturates, a class of medications often used to treat sleep
disorders including butabarbital, mephobarbital, pentobarbital, and
phenobarbital. However, scientific studies in humans are needed before it is
known whether this same effect occurs in people and whether it is safe for DHEA
and barbiturates to be used together.
Cisplatin
An animal study indicates that DHEA may increase the
effectiveness of an anti-cancer medication known as cisplatin; further studies
are needed to know if this effect applies to people.
Steroids
Laboratory studies suggest that DHEA may increase the
effects of prednisolone, a steroid medication used to treat inflammation and
other disorders. Additional research is needed to determine if this effect
applies to people.
Estrogen
It is possible that DHEA may influence the level of
estrogen in the body. For this reason, some women on estrogen replacement
therapy may need to adjust their dosage. This should be discussed with your
healthcare provider.
