7-Keto DHEA
A DHEA metabolite that doesn't convert to testosterone or estrogen. Mild metabolic / thermogenic effects without DHEA's hormonal side effects.
Moderate evidence for modest fat loss in calorie-restricted diets, thermogenic effect, and mild T3 thyroid activation. Doesn't elevate testosterone / estrogen. Effects: 6–8 weeks.
7-Keto DHEA (3-acetyl-7-oxo-DHEA, 7-oxo-DHEA) is a naturally-occurring metabolite of DHEA that the body cannot convert back into sex hormones — so it lacks the androgenic / estrogenic effects of standard DHEA. It modestly raises thermogenesis and basal metabolic rate, supports T3 thyroid hormone activity, and has small body-fat-loss effects in calorie-restricted trials. Useful when you want the metabolic effects of DHEA without the hormonal side effects.
- Form
- 7-Keto DHEA capsules. Look for clean / single-ingredient products.
- Dose
- 100 mg twice daily (200 mg total).
- Timing
- AM and midday with food. Not PM (mildly activating).
- Schedule
- Daily, often cycled (8 weeks on / 2 off).
- Side effects
- Generally well-tolerated. Mild irritability, insomnia (if taken PM). Headache.
- Interactions
- Thyroid medications — additive T3 effect. Generally clean otherwise.
- Contraindications
- Hyperthyroidism. Pregnancy / breastfeeding. Children.
- Lab markers
- TSH, free T3, free T4 if running long-term. Body composition.
- Food sources
- Not in food.
Pairs with
Green tea extract, caffeine, capsicum (thermogenic stack). Caloric restriction / exercise (amplifies effect).
within Hormone precursors & modulators