7-KETO (3-acetyl-7-oxo-dehydroepiandrosterone) is a naturally occurring metabolite
(breakdown product) of the hormone dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA).1 DHEA is the most abundant of the
adrenal steroid hormones and serves as a precursor for sex hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone.
Where is it found?
7-KETO is available as a dietary supplement.
7-KETO has been used in
connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual
health concern for complete information):
Reliable
and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies
suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal
or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health
benefit.
Who is likely to be deficient?
Since the level of 7-KETO is directly related to the level of DHEA in the body,2 people with lower DHEA
levels likely have low 7-KETO levels as well. Low DHEA levels are primarily associated with
aging.
How much is usually taken?
The manufacturer of 7-KETO recommends 100 mg twice daily for weight loss.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
A safety study in humans has shown that 7-KETO did not raise estrogen or testosterone
levels or produce any other negative effects at levels up to 200 mg per day for eight
weeks.3 Short-term animal studies also revealed no adverse effects with large
amounts of 7-KETO.456 However, the long-term safety of
7-KETO for humans has not been demonstrated, and, because it is chemically related to steroid
hormones, the potential for adverse effects must be considered. In addition, the increase in
T3 levels resulting from taking 7-KETO could, in theory, produce adverse effects on the heart
or promote bone loss. For these reasons, people wishing to take 7-KETO, particularly those who
have a thyroid disorder or are taking thyroid
hormone, should consult a physician.
At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions
with 7-KETO.
References (To view, roll mouse over the "References" heading; to hide, click on the heading)
1. Lardy H, Kneer N, Wei Y, et al. Ergosteroids. II: Biologically active
metabolites and synthetic derivatives of dehydroepiandrosterone. Steroids
1998;63:158-65.
2. Lardy H, Kneer N, Wei Y, et al. Ergosteroids. II: Biologically active
metabolites and synthetic derivatives of dehydroepiandrosterone. Steroids
1998;63:158–65.
3. Davidson MH, Weeks CE, Lardy H, et al. Safety and endocrine effects of
3-acetyl-7-oxo DHEA (7-keto DHEA). FASEB J 1998;12:A4429.
4. Lardy H, Henwood SM, Weeks CE. An acute oral gavage study of
3beta-acetoxyandrost- 5-ene-7,17-dione (7-oxo-DHEA-acetate) in rats. Biochem Biophys Res
Commun 1999;254:120–3.
5. Henwood SM, Weeks CE, Lardy H. An escalating dose oral gavage study of
3beta-acetoxyandrost-5-ene-7, 17-dione (7-oxo-DHEA-acetate) in rhesus monkeys. Biochem
Biophys Res Commun 1999;254:124–6.
6. Weeks C, Lardy H, Henwood S. Preclinical toxicology evaluation of
3-acetyl-7-oxo-dehydroepiandrosterone (7-keto DHEA). FASEB J 1998;12:A4428.
The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes
only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical
experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not
necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with
prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor,
practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or
before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2009.
Reliable
and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal
or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health
benefit.
