Lack of effect of dehydroepiandrosterone in obese men
Usiskin, K.S.; Butterworth, S.; Clore, J.N.; Arad, Y.; Ginsberg, H.N.; Blackard, W.G.; Nestler, J.E.
International Journal of Obesity 14(5): 457-463
1990
ISSN/ISBN: 0307-0565 PMID: 2143499 Document Number: 362279
The effects of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) on weight and body fat mass was studied in 6 young obese men (body mass index, 31.5+or-2.9 (s.e.)), after 28 days of placebo administration, and again after 28 days of DHEA (1600 mg/day) administration. Body fat mass was estimated on each occasion by 3 separate methods: hydrostatic weighing, impedance plethysmography, and skinfold measurements at 4 body sites. Waist-to-hip ratios were recorded. In addition, tissue sensitivity to insulin was determined using the modified minimal model technique, and serum lipids were assayed. Serum DHEA-sulphate concentrations increased from 7.4+or-1.7 at baseline to 39.8+or-11.9 micro mol/litre after DHEA administration (P<0.05). Although body fat mass was reduced in 2 of the 6 men following DHEA administration, for the group as a whole total body weight, body fat mass or waist-to-hip ratio did not change significantly during the study. No change in either tissue insulin sensitivity or serum lipids was observed. Data suggests that, at a daily dose of 13.4-19.7 mg/kg, short-term DHEA administration does not affect the total weight, body fat mass, fat distribution, insulin sensitivity or lipid status of obese young men.