DHEA-S (Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate)
DHEA-S is the sulfated form of DHEA, produced primarily by the adrenal glands. It serves as a precursor hormone that can be converted into both testosterone and estrogen. DHEA-S is the most abundant circulating steroid hormone and is considered a biomarker of adrenal function and biological aging.
DHEA-S levels peak in the mid-20s and decline steadily with age — by age 70, levels may be only 10–20% of peak values. This decline is sometimes called "adrenopause" and correlates with age-related changes in body composition, bone density, and immune function.
Because DHEA-S is relatively stable throughout the day (unlike cortisol), it provides a reliable snapshot of adrenal hormone production without the need for timed or serial blood draws.
What It Measures
DHEA-S measures the blood level of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, reflecting adrenal gland output of this precursor hormone. It serves as an indicator of overall adrenal function and hormonal reserve.
Reference Ranges
| Status | Range (mcg/dL) |
|---|---|
| Optimal | 250–400 mcg/dL (men), 150–300 mcg/dL (women) |
| Normal | 100–500 mcg/dL (men), 50–400 mcg/dL (women) |
| Borderline | 50–100 mcg/dL |
| Out of Range | < 50 mcg/dL |
Interpreting Your Results
When Values Are High
Adrenal hyperactivity, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, PCOS (adrenal androgen excess), or adrenal tumors.
When Values Are Low
Adrenal insufficiency, aging (declines 2–5% per year after age 25), chronic stress, or autoimmune disease.
Optimal Ranges
| Group | Range | Unit | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Men (20–29) | 280–640 | ug/dL | Standard reference |
| Men (30–39) | 120–520 | ug/dL | Standard reference |
| Women (20–29) | 65–380 | ug/dL | Standard reference |
| Women (30–39) | 45–270 | ug/dL | Standard reference |
When Values Are High
Elevated DHEA-S may indicate adrenal hyperplasia, adrenal tumors, or PCOS in women. Can also be elevated from DHEA supplementation.
When Values Are Low
Low DHEA-S is associated with aging (declines ~2% per year after age 25), chronic stress, adrenal fatigue, and autoimmune conditions. Symptoms include fatigue, low libido, and reduced stress resilience.
What To Do
Lifestyle
- •Stress management is critical — chronic cortisol depletes DHEA
- •Regular exercise supports adrenal function
- •Adequate sleep (7–9 hours)
Supplements
- •DHEA supplementation (25–50mg men, 10–25mg women) only if confirmed deficient
- •Never supplement without testing — excess DHEA converts to estrogen/testosterone
- •Adaptogenic herbs (ashwagandha, rhodiola) may support adrenal function
When to Retest
Retest 8–12 weeks; morning draw preferred
How GATOR Tracks This
Lab Providers
Related Biomarkers
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and individual factors. Consult a qualified healthcare provider for interpretation of your results and treatment decisions.
Track DHEA-S in GATOR
Import your lab results and see how this biomarker trends over time with AI-powered context.
Get Started Free