Usage
This combination is primarily used as supportive therapy in the treatment of female infertility and male hypogonadism. It may also be used to improve overall well-being and energy levels. It is not FDA-approved for any specific indication and is typically marketed as a dietary supplement. This combination doesn’t have a single pharmacological classification because it combines different classes of substances:
- Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA): Endogenous steroid hormone, Hormone precursor.
- Melatonin: Antioxidant, Chronobiotic.
- Vitamin D3: Fat-soluble vitamin.
DHEA acts as a precursor to sex hormones (estrogen and testosterone), which may help improve egg quality and ovarian function in women and testosterone levels in men. Melatonin improves sleep quality and has antioxidant properties. Vitamin D3 contributes to overall health, including bone health, which is important for reproductive health.
Alternate Names
- DHEA + Melatonin + Vitamin D3
- Prasterone + Melatonin + Cholecalciferol
- Dehydroepiandrosterone/melatonin/vitamin D3
Brand names vary depending on the manufacturer. Dhea Sure is one example of a brand name for this combination.
How It Works
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA):
- Pharmacodynamics: DHEA is a precursor hormone that is converted into androgens and estrogens in the body. Its effects depend on the conversion into these hormones.
- Pharmacokinetics: DHEA is readily absorbed orally. It is metabolized in the liver and other tissues and excreted in the urine.
- Mode of Action: DHEA acts by being converted into active sex hormones. The precise mechanism related to infertility is not fully understood but is thought to involve improving ovarian function and egg quality.
Melatonin:
- Pharmacodynamics: Melatonin regulates the sleep-wake cycle and has antioxidant properties.
- Pharmacokinetics: Melatonin is rapidly absorbed after oral administration. It is metabolized in the liver and excreted in the urine.
- Mode of Action: Melatonin binds to melatonin receptors in the brain, particularly MT1 and MT2 receptors, which are involved in regulating circadian rhythms.
Vitamin D3:
- Pharmacodynamics: Vitamin D3 promotes calcium absorption and is important for bone health, immune function, and cell growth.
- Pharmacokinetics: Vitamin D3 is absorbed from the gut and requires binding to vitamin D-binding protein for transport. It is metabolized in the liver and kidneys to its active form, calcitriol.
- Mode of Action: Calcitriol, the active form of vitamin D3, binds to vitamin D receptors in various tissues, modulating gene expression and regulating calcium and phosphorus metabolism.
Dosage
Dosage should be individualized based on patient needs and the specific product formulation. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized dosage recommendations. It is crucial to follow the instructions of the prescribed combination product carefully. There is no standardized or FDA-approved dosage for this combination.
Standard Dosage
It’s important to note that because this product is a supplement and not an approved drug, there is no “standard dosage”. What follows are typical dosages of the components, and may not be appropriate for combined therapy.
Adults:
DHEA is typically used at doses of 25-75mg daily. Melatonin is often used in doses of 1-10 mg for sleep-related issues, and up to 12 mg for other conditions. Vitamin D3 recommendations vary depending on individual needs, but 400-800 mcg (1600-3200 IU) is common for adults.
Children:
This combination is generally not recommended for children without a doctor’s supervision.
Special Cases:
- Elderly Patients: Dosage may need to be adjusted based on individual health status and organ function. Lower dosages may be appropriate.
- Patients with Renal Impairment: Careful monitoring and possible dosage adjustments are necessary.
- Patients with Hepatic Dysfunction: DHEA is metabolized in the liver, so dosage modification may be required.
- Patients with Comorbid Conditions (e.g., diabetes, cardiovascular disease): Close monitoring and potential dose adjustments are needed.
Clinical Use Cases
The combination isn’t typically used in hospital settings or emergency situations.
Dosage Adjustments
Dose modifications should be based on patient-specific factors like renal/hepatic function, other medical conditions, and other medications.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
The most common side effects reported include acne, oily skin, hair loss or increased hair growth, facial hair growth in women, mood swings, irritability, headaches, fatigue, changes in menstrual cycle, nausea, bloating, flatulence, abdominal cramps, and sleep disturbances.
Rare but Serious Side Effects
More serious side effects can occur with high doses or prolonged use of DHEA, including liver damage, cardiovascular issues, hormonal imbalances, and increased risk of certain cancers. Melatonin can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and headaches. High doses of vitamin D3 can lead to vitamin D toxicity, resulting in high calcium levels, nausea, vomiting, and kidney problems.
Long-Term Effects
Long-term effects of this combination are not fully understood. Prolonged high doses of DHEA can have serious side effects.
Adverse Drug Reactions (ADR)
Any unusual or severe reaction should be promptly reported to a healthcare professional.
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to any component of the combination.
- Hormone-sensitive cancers (breast, ovarian, prostate, uterine).
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Severe liver or kidney disease.
Drug Interactions
DHEA can interact with various medications, including estrogen, testosterone, certain antidepressants (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline), blood thinners (e.g., warfarin), and anti-seizure medications (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin). Melatonin can interact with anticoagulants and medications that affect blood sugar. Vitamin D3 can interact with certain medications like thiazide diuretics and corticosteroids.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
This combination is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential hormonal effects on the developing fetus or infant.
Drug Profile Summary
- Mechanism of Action: DHEA: Precursor to sex hormones; Melatonin: Regulates sleep-wake cycle, antioxidant; Vitamin D3: Promotes calcium absorption, bone health.
- Side Effects: See above.
- Contraindications: See above.
- Drug Interactions: See above.
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Contraindicated.
- Dosage: Individualized based on patient needs and product formulation.
- Monitoring Parameters: Hormone levels (if applicable), liver function tests, calcium levels (with high-dose Vitamin D3).
Popular Combinations
This combination itself is sometimes marketed alongside Coenzyme Q10 for fertility support.
Precautions
Consult a healthcare professional before starting this combination. Follow recommended dosages, be aware of potential side effects, and report any adverse reactions. Use with caution in patients with pre-existing medical conditions, and avoid alcohol while taking this combination. It’s important to disclose all medications, supplements, and herbs you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: What is the recommended dosage for Dehydroepiandrosterone + Melatonin + Vitamin D3?
A: There’s no standardized dosage for this combined supplement. Dosages should be determined by a healthcare professional based on individual patient needs and the specific product being used. Typical individual component dosages for adults are DHEA 25-75 mg, Melatonin 1-10mg (up to 12mg for certain conditions), and Vitamin D3 400-800mcg.
Q2: Is this combination safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
A: No, it is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to the potential hormonal effects.
Q3: What are the common side effects?
A: Common side effects may include acne, oily skin, hair changes, mood swings, headaches, fatigue, menstrual changes, gastrointestinal issues, and sleep disturbances.
Q4: Are there any serious side effects?
A: Yes, potential serious side effects, particularly with high doses of DHEA, can include liver damage, cardiovascular problems, and hormonal imbalances. High doses of vitamin D3 can cause toxicity.
Q5: Can I take this supplement with other medications?
A: It can interact with various medications. Inform your doctor about all other medications and supplements you take.
Q6: What conditions is this combination used for?
A: Primarily used as supportive therapy for female infertility and male hypogonadism, and may be used to improve general well-being.
Q7: How does this combination work for infertility?
A: DHEA may improve ovarian function and egg quality in women and testosterone levels in men. Melatonin’s antioxidant properties may contribute to reproductive health, and Vitamin D3 plays a role in overall health, including bone health, which is important for reproduction.
Q8: Is this combination FDA-approved?
A: No, it is typically marketed as a dietary supplement and is not FDA-approved for any specific medical condition.
A: Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance on this supplement. They can evaluate your specific needs and determine if this combination is suitable for you.
