DHEA ... really helping...a follow-up

Hi guys,

I posted a few weeks ago about starting DHEA. It is now 3 weeks and I wanted to convey the positive results.
Of course this is just my experience and we can't rule out other factors, but WOW - I've been feeling much better:
- more energy
- better mental focus
- better mood
- even increased libido

I've been taking opioids for 10 years now and over the past 3, especially over the past year, I've had the classic signs of opioid induced hormone deficiency.

DHEA is a precursor for hormone production and I'd say the supplements (50 mg daily) started to help in a few days.

Studies may vary, but here's a quotes from:
http://jaoa.org/article.aspx?articleid=2093682

As previously noted, sustained-action opioids decrease adrenal androgen and cortisol production, creating moderate adrenal insufficiency.9 In our experience, female patients with suspected androgen deficiency who are receiving long-term opioid treatment have reported increased energy, increased libido, and weight loss with DHEA supplementation.
One randomized controlled trial58 evaluated DHEA treatment and supported its use in women with adrenal insufficiency, which is a potential consequence of opioid use. Another study59 indicated that 50 to 100 mg/day of DHEA supplementation has the potential to raise androgen levels to normal or near-normal levels. Despite the potential value of DHEA therapy for women, it remains controversial and is not considered standard treatment.


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It makes sense to be skeptical, but given how inexpensive DHEA is, why not try it for a few weeks. Of course, see what your doc says too.
I'm very curious to see if others get good results too. If you do try it, please let me know.

☺

Hi pitmon, I doubt the opioids are reducing cortisol. The opioid endocrine effects are suppose to only come after months or years of sustained use.

Also, many people get an energy boost when they first start opioids. It more likely is euphoric effect from an opioid sub receptor.

Anyhow, let me encourage anyone who has been dealing with low energy to try DHEA for a few days. I've been using it for almost amonth now with a HUGE improvement to energy, mental clarity, and mood.

The side effect I've experienced are: 1. Insomnia if I take a pill too late (after 9pm) 2. A bit itchy if I take too much (over 75mg)

I'm so thrilled with its benefit, please everyone, give DHEA some thought. It is quite cheap at Amazon, etc..

Pain is even less due either to improved mood, anti-inflammatory effect, or maybe Because I feel comfortably WARM, not cold all the time like I had been.


Check out this summary

http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/dhea/evidence/hrb-20059173