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.
Why do dieters use it?*
Some dieters say that 7-KETO
helps promote weight loss, when used along with a diet
and exercise program.
What do the advocates say?*
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is used by the body as a
building block in the production of estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone. Only those who
have been tested and found to be low in DHEA should consider taking this supplement; for these
people, 7-Keto (3-acetyl-7-oxo-dehydroepiandrosterone) may improve metabolism and energy
levels.
While 7-KETO was developed to avoid the potential
hormone-like effects of DHEA, it is still important to consult a physician familiar with its
use.
Some users have reported feeling “jittery”
after taking as little as 100 mg of 7-Keto per day.
How much is usually taken by dieters?
The ability of 7-KETO, a substance related to DHEA, to promote weight loss in overweight
people has been investigated in one double-blind trial.2 Participants in the trial
were advised to exercise three times per week for 45 minutes and to eat an
1,800-calorie-per-day diet. Each person was given either a placebo or 100 mg of 7-KETO twice
daily. After eight weeks, those receiving 7-KETO had lost more weight and lowered their
percentage of body fat further compared to those taking a placebo. These results may have been
due to increases in levels of a thyroid hormone (T3) that plays a major role in determining a
person’s metabolic rate, although the levels of T3 did not exceed the normal range.
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.
*Dieters and weight-management advocates may claim benefits for
7-KETO based on their personal or professional experience. These are individual opinions and
testimonials that may or may not be supported by controlled clinical studies or published
scientific articles on 7-KETO. For more complete and detailed information, including
references and safety information, see 7-KETO as a
nutritional supplement.
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. Kalman DS, Colker CM, Swain MA, et al. A randomized, double-blind,
placebo controlled study of 3-acetyl-7-oxo-dehydroepiandrosterone in healthy overweight
adults. Curr Ther Res 2000;61:435–42.
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 September 2008.
