Pregnenolone
Overview:
Pregnenolone is utilized by the body to produce steroids. It elevates
estrogen and testosterone levels in the body. It is a precursor to
Dehydropinandrosterone (DHEA). A majority of research performed has
been on animals, and has not been thoroughly examined as yet for use
in humans. Studies are continuously being conducted to find more definite
answers on its effects on aging and memory.
How This Supplement Works in Your Body:
There are no proven effects on the body
May aid in memory retention
May decrease the effects of aging
May assist in treating spinal cord injury when used in conjunction
with anti-inflammatory agents
May reduce inflammation associated with arthritis
How to Use:
Follow instructions provided by manufacturer or consult with your
physician or pharmacist.
Dosage varies among different brands
Available as:
Capsules
Cautions:
Don't take if you:
Are allergic to pregnenolone
Have a history of cancer in your family or a hormone-dependent cancer
Consult your doctor if you:
Experience any health problems
Are allergic to any medication, food or other substances
Over the age of 55:
Lower doses are recommended until a reaction is determined
Pregnancy:
Consult with your physician to determine if any benefits of taking
pregnenolone outweigh the risk to your unborn child. Since pregnenolone
is not regulated by the FDA, the risk to an unborn child is unknown.
Breastfeeding:
Whether pregnenolone passes into milk is unknown. Consult your physician
before taking pregnenolone.
Infants and Children:
It is hazardous to treat infants and children under 2 with any supplement.
Storage:
Keep in a cool and dry location and away from direct light, but
do not freeze.
Keep safely away from children.
Do not keep in bathroom medicine cabinet. Heat and dampness may
alter the action of the supplement.
Safe dosage:
Pregnenolone, as a product, is marketed as a dietary supplement.
Optimal dosage amounts are unknown. Use caution when taking this
drug. Pregnenolone has not been reviewed by the U.S. Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) to determine its effectiveness and safety.
Hormone supplements may cause different effects on the body than
do naturally produced hormones, because the body processes them
differently. An increase in amount of supplements taken can result
in higher levels of hormones in the blood than are healthy.
Toxicity:
Information on the comparative-toxicity rating cannot be found in
standard references.
Side Effects:
Signs and symptoms: What to do:
Infrequent: In women--facial hair growth (Hirsutism) : Discontinue
use. Call your physician when convenient.
In men--breast enlargement : Discontinue use. Call your physician
when convenient.
