7-Keto DHEA
Also known as: 7-Keto-DHEA, 7-oxo-DHEA, 3β-hydroxy-androst-5-ene-7,17-dione, 7-Keto dehydroepiandrosterone
Effective Dosage
No established dose (insufficient research data)
What the Science Says
7-Keto DHEA is a naturally occurring metabolite of DHEA, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. Unlike DHEA itself, it does not convert into sex hormones like testosterone or estrogen in the body. A systematic review found only 4 qualifying human studies — with mixed results — suggesting it may modestly increase resting metabolic rate and reduce body fat in some people, but the overall evidence is too limited to draw firm conclusions.
What It Doesn't Do
Not proven to reliably cause weight loss. The systematic review found only 4 small studies with inconsistent results — half showed no significant weight reduction. Don't expect dramatic fat-burning effects. Not a substitute for diet and exercise. No strong evidence it boosts testosterone or acts as a performance enhancer in humans.
Evidence-Based Benefits
A systematic review (PMID 36566478) identified only 4 eligible studies out of 686 screened, with mixed results: half showed significant body weight reduction, two reported increased resting metabolic rate, and one each showed reduced body fat percentage and BMI, but no clear conclusion could be drawn. In vitro research (PMID 19010388) suggests 7-keto-DHEA may inhibit 11β-HSD1, an enzyme involved in intracellular glucocorticoid reactivation, which could theoretically influence metabolism. Animal studies (PMIDs 21051179, 22473025) found it reduced ethanol intake in rats, but this has not been tested in humans.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose (insufficient research data)
Source: auto-research
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — human pharmacokinetic data is limited in the provided studies. Anti-doping research confirms it is metabolized and excreted in urine, but absorption rates and bioavailability figures are not established from the provided papers.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Banned by WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) — athletes subject to drug testing should avoid it entirely
- Only 4 human studies found in a comprehensive systematic review — extremely thin evidence base for a widely sold supplement
- No serious adverse effects reported in studies, but long-term safety has not been established
- Over 1,000 registered supplement products contain this ingredient despite very weak clinical evidence
- Animal studies used intraperitoneal injection — results may not translate to oral human supplementation
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-04-06