Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) supplementation for cognitive function

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience and Aging Research
• Endocrinology and Cognitive Function

Background:

• Theoretical basis suggests dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its sulfate (DHEAS) may benefit cognitive function in aging and dementia.
• Widespread public use of DHEA supplements necessitates scientific investigation into efficacy, dosage, and safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if DHEA or DHEAS administration improves cognitive function in healthy older adults or individuals with dementia.
• To assess if DHEA/S reduces the rate of cognitive decline in these populations.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating DHEA/S effects on cognition in older adults.
• Independent data extraction by two reviewers; no meta-analysis due to insufficient statistical data.
• Inclusion of studies on normal aging and cognitive decline; no studies specifically on dementia were found.

Main Results:

• One study indicated improved visual memory recall in women after 2 weeks of DHEA, but no effects in men or on verbal memory.
• Another study showed DHEA mitigated attention decline after stress but impaired visual memory post-stress; no effects without stress.
• A third study found no significant cognitive effects of DHEA compared to placebo after 3 months; DHEA was generally well-tolerated.

Conclusions:

• Current data do not support DHEA treatment for improving memory or cognitive function in older adults.
• High-quality, long-term trials (over one year) with sufficient participants are required to detect potential neuroprotective effects.
• Results from recently completed trials in various populations are pending and will be incorporated into future reviews.