Skip to main content
SupplementScience

Types of DHEA: Forms & Bioavailability

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer

Forms Comparison

FormBioavailabilityBest For
Micronized DHEAHighStandard oral supplementation — micronization improves absorption and provides more consistent blood levels
7-Keto DHEAModerateNon-hormonal metabolite — does not convert to testosterone or estrogen; primarily studied for metabolic rate and body composition
DHEA Cream (transdermal)Moderate-HighTopical application — avoids first-pass liver metabolism; may provide more favorable DHEA-to-androgen conversion ratios

Micronized DHEA

Bioavailability: High. Best for: Standard oral supplementation — micronization improves absorption and provides more consistent blood levels.

7-Keto DHEA

Bioavailability: Moderate. Best for: Non-hormonal metabolite — does not convert to testosterone or estrogen; primarily studied for metabolic rate and body composition.

DHEA Cream (transdermal)

Bioavailability: Moderate-High. Best for: Topical application — avoids first-pass liver metabolism; may provide more favorable DHEA-to-androgen conversion ratios.

References

  1. (). Effect of DHEA on abdominal fat and insulin action in elderly women and men: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA. DOI
  2. (). DHEA in elderly women and DHEA or testosterone in elderly men. New England Journal of Medicine. DOI
  3. (). Effects of dehydroepiandrosterone replacement therapy on bone mineral density in older adults: a randomized, controlled trial. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism. DOI