September 2007

DHEA access to be restricted by Senate bill

Access to the dietary supplement DHEA is in jeopardy, according to the Natural Products Association.

The Senate is considering a bill, S. 762, to classify DHEA as an anabolic steroid, adding it to the list of controlled substances and removing it from the market. H.R. 1249 is the companion bill in the U.S. House of Representatives.

DHEA is not an anabolic steroid, but is a naturally occurring hormone with a wide range of benefits, including maintaining muscle strength and strong bones, boosting immunity, and improving mood and sleep patterns. Further studies suggest DHEA may be helpful for such conditions as obesity, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease. DHEA dietary supplements, which have been on the market for more than 20 years, are derived from a plant in the wild yam family.

The Natural Products Association is encouraging support to help keep DHEA legal and accessible. Those interested are recommended to send a message to Congress asking senators and representative to oppose S. 762 and H.R. 1249, as well as any amendment to restrict access to DHEA to minors.

Source: Natural Products Association, www.naturalproductsassoc.org

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