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Postmenopausal steroid replacement with micronized dehydroepiandrosterone: preliminary oral bioavailability and dose
J E Buster1, P R Casson, A B Straughn
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tennessee, Memphis.
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|April 1, 1992
Summary
Oral micronized dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) shows promising bioavailability for postmenopausal women. This steroid replacement therapy, when micronized, may offer adjunctive benefits alongside estrogens, warranting further research.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
- Women's Health
Background:
- Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is an endogenous steroid hormone with potential protective effects against neoplasia, osteoporosis, and cardiac disease.
- Menopause is associated with declining DHEA levels, impacting women's health and potentially increasing disease risk.
- Investigating the bioavailability of oral DHEA is crucial for its potential therapeutic applications in postmenopausal women.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the bioavailability of oral micronized dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in postmenopausal women.
- To evaluate DHEA's potential as an adjunctive therapy in postmenopausal steroid replacement.
- To determine the pharmacokinetic profile of oral micronized DHEA and its metabolites.
Main Methods:
- A randomized, placebo-controlled study involving eight postmenopausal women.
- Administration of oral micronized dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) at doses of 150 mg and 300 mg, or placebo, in a lipid matrix.
- Periodic measurement of serum DHEA, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), testosterone, and estradiol over 12 hours post-dose, with statistical analysis using ANOVA and Newman-Keuls tests.
Main Results:
- Oral micronized DHEA significantly increased serum concentrations of DHEA, DHEA-S, and testosterone compared to placebo.
- Peak steroid concentrations and areas under the curve were dose-proportional for both 150 mg and 300 mg doses.
- After dose adjustment for assay overestimation, testosterone levels were observed within physiological premenopausal ranges following the 150 mg dose.
Conclusions:
- Oral micronized dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) demonstrates favorable bioavailability in postmenopausal women.
- Micronized DHEA may serve as a valuable adjunctive steroidal replacement therapy alongside estrogens.
- Further investigation into the therapeutic potential of oral micronized DHEA in postmenopausal hormone replacement is warranted.