DHEA-S · low result
What does a low DHEA-S mean?
Short answer
DHEA-S declines steadily with age — a 70-year-old normally has a fraction of a 25-year-old's level — so a 'low' result must be judged against the age-specific range. A truly low level for age can reflect adrenal insufficiency, pituitary disease, glucocorticoid medication or chronic illness. Low DHEA-S alone, without symptoms of adrenal insufficiency, is rarely treated.
Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD · Last reviewed September 2026
What is the normal range for DHEA-S?
- Male, age 18–39: 160 – 449 mcg/dL
- Male, age 40–59: 89.0 – 360 mcg/dL
- Male, age 60+: 28.0 – 175 mcg/dL
- Female, age 18–39: 84.0 – 378 mcg/dL
- Female, age 40–59: 32.0 – 240 mcg/dL
- Female, age 60+: 26.0 – 200 mcg/dL
Full reference table, citations and testing options: DHEA-S biomarker page.
What are the common causes of low DHEA-S?
- Normal aging
- Glucocorticoid medication (prednisone, inhaled steroids)
- Adrenal insufficiency, pituitary disease
- Chronic illness, anorexia nervosa
- Oral estrogens
What symptoms go with low DHEA-S?
- None specific
- Fatigue, low libido if part of adrenal or pituitary insufficiency
What do clinicians usually check next?
- Compare against the age-specific range
- Morning cortisol if adrenal insufficiency is possible
- Review steroid medications
Follow-up tests available at TestWell: Cortisol (AM) ($26.99), Cortisol ($32.99).
How do you recheck DHEA-S?
Prices are cash-pay; every order adds one $6 lab processing fee. Physician authorization is included; no insurance or referral needed.
| Test or panel | Type | Price | Fasting | Results |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Men's Hormone Panel | Panel · 7 tests | $199.99 | No | 3–5 business days |
| Women's Hormone Panel | Panel · 11 tests | $239.99 | No | 3–5 business days |
| Healthy Aging Panel | Panel · 15 tests | $299.99 | Yes | 3–5 business days |
| DHEA-Sulfate | Test | $32.99 | No | 1–3 business days |
Common questions
Should I take DHEA if mine is low?
Evidence for supplementing on the basis of a low level alone is weak, and DHEA converts to testosterone and estrogen with side effects. Discuss with a clinician rather than self-treating.
Sources
Educational content, not a diagnosis. Lab results are one input; a clinician interprets them with your history and exam.