Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate and Arterial Hypertension

Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) is a steroid molecule whose function and mechanism of action in the human body are still inadequately researched. A potential protective function for the cardiovascular system can be explained by activation of nitric oxide production, impact on endothelial and mitochondrial function, and inhibition of proinflammatory cytokine production (IL-6 and TNF-α). Some research shows the beneficial effects of DHEA/DHEAS on many bodily functions, especially in the cardiovascular and the neurological systems. However, we need to be careful with interpretation of the results because of different criteria used for defining arterial hypertension, the race that was observed, and reproductive status of women, as these factors can change the conclusion. Due to a lack of evidence, DHEAS supplementation is still not recommended. We need multicentric prospective and randomized studies on DHEAS to examine its potential impact on blood pressure regulation and cardiovascular risk.