7-KETO

7-KETO (3-acetyl-7-oxo-dehydroepiandrosterone) is a naturally occurring metabolite (breakdown product) of the hormone dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA).¹ DHEA is the most abundant of the adrenal steroid hormones and serves as a precursor for sex hormones, such as oestrogen and testosterone.

Where is it found?

7-KETO is available as a dietary supplement.

7-KETO has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):

Science Ratings	Health Concerns
	Weight loss
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. For a herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

Who is likely to be deficient?

Since the level of 7-KETO is directly related to the level of DHEA in the body,² people with lower DHEA levels likely have low 7-KETO levels as well. Low DHEA levels are primarily associated with aging.

How much is usually taken?

The manufacturer of 7-KETO recommends 100 mg twice daily for weight loss.

Are there any side effects or interactions?

A safety study in humans has shown that 7-KETO did not raise oestrogen or testosterone levels or produce any other negative effects at levels up to 200 mg per day for eight weeks.³ Short-term animal studies also revealed no adverse effects with large amounts of 7-KETO.⁴ ⁵ ⁶ However, the long-term safety of 7-KETO for humans has not been demonstrated, and, because it is chemically related to steroid hormones, the potential for adverse effects must be considered. In addition, the increase in T3 levels resulting from taking 7-KETO could, in theory, produce adverse effects on the heart or promote bone loss. For these reasons, people wishing to take 7-KETO, particularly those who have a thyroid disorder or are taking thyroid hormone, should consult a physician.

At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with 7-KETO.

References

1. Lardy H, Kneer N, Wei Y, et al. Ergosteroids. II: Biologically active metabolites and synthetic derivatives of dehydroepiandrosterone. Steroids 1998;63:158-65.

2. Lardy H, Kneer N, Wei Y, et al. Ergosteroids. II: Biologically active metabolites and synthetic derivatives of dehydroepiandrosterone. Steroids 1998;63:158–65.

3. Davidson MH, Weeks CE, Lardy H, et al. Safety and endocrine effects of 3-acetyl-7-oxo DHEA (7-keto DHEA). FASEB J 1998;12:A4429.

4. Lardy H, Henwood SM, Weeks CE. An acute oral gavage study of 3beta-acetoxyandrost- 5-ene-7,17-dione (7-oxo-DHEA-acetate) in rats. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 1999;254:120–3.

5. Henwood SM, Weeks CE, Lardy H. An escalating dose oral gavage study of 3beta-acetoxyandrost-5-ene-7, 17-dione (7-oxo-DHEA-acetate) in rhesus monkeys. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 1999;254:124–6.

6. Weeks C, Lardy H, Henwood S. Preclinical toxicology evaluation of 3-acetyl-7-oxo-dehydroepiandrosterone (7-keto DHEA). FASEB J 1998;12:A4428.

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or chemist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires August 2007.