ABSTRACT
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its sulfated ester (DHEAS) has gained significant interest in the academic community and in the lay public due to claims it might act as an “anti-ageing hormone” or an “endocrine fountain of youth”. The strong age associated decline of the steroid in humans and the demonstration of multiple beneficial effects of DHEA in rodents has excited scientists as well as the media. DHEA is available in the United States as an over the counter medication, since it is classified as a food supplement. In addition, DHEA can be ordered via the internet worldwide. Currently an unknown amount of elderly people take DHEA without medical indication or supervision.
