Multiple Sclerosis treatment with DHEA

    
      Re: Multiple Sclerosis treatment with DHEA
    


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Posted by ccf neuro M.D.* on August 18, 1997 at 16:24:14:

In Reply to: Multiple Sclerosis treatment with DHEA posted by jack lewis on July 28, 1997 at 08:15:52:

  I have chronic progressive multiple sclerosis and heard about possible treatment with DHEA.
  Do you have any information on this?
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DHEA, or dihydroepiandesterone, is a compound that is an intermediary substance in the body's pathway to the formation of sex steroid hormones, such as testosterone in men or estrogens in women. It has recently been aggressively marketed as a "nutritional" or "vitamin" supplement for fatigue, loss of libido, and various other problems. In many people who take it, it does seem to produce a subjective feeling of well-being, however, there are no scientifically sound studies to demonstrate its efficacy or safety in the treatment of any human disease. On the other hand, it has been linked to an increased risk of sex-steroid sensitive cancers such as prostate cancer. A recent edition of The Medical Letter, a very reliable source of new drug information, stongly cautions against its use until the precise nature of the possible benefits, and particularly the risks, can be ascertained. I have not personally heard of the supplement being used for purposes of treating multiple sclerosis, and no data exist to support (or refute) its use at this time. Amantidine is a drug that has been around for a number of years that is often successful in reducing fatigue in M.S. patients, and you may wish to consider inquiring about it, if fatigue is your chief concern. Otherwise, only corticosteroid and interferon medications have been proven effective in altering the course of M.S. in a positive way. You may wish to contact the office of Dr. Richard Rudick at the Cleveland Clinic's Mellen Center for further information and/or to arrange an evaluation at this center, whose sole purpose is the diagnosis and treatment of multiple sclerosis. I hope this information is useful to you.