Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) 7 mg Vaginal Suppositories are a specialized formulation designed to deliver the steroid hormone DHEA directly to the vaginal tissue. DHEA is a naturally occurring hormone that serves as a precursor to sex hormones such as estrogen and testosterone. With age, DHEA levels decline, which can lead to various symptoms and conditions associated with hormonal imbalances or deficiencies. The use of DHEA in a vaginal suppository form allows for localized action with minimal systemic absorption, which can be beneficial in managing conditions such as vaginal atrophy, dryness, and inflammation, often experienced during menopause or as a result of certain medical treatments.

The 7 mg dose of DHEA in these suppositories is carefully compounded to ensure a consistent and precise delivery of medication. When inserted into the vagina, the suppository base, typically made from a substance like cocoa butter or a glycerinated gelatin, melts or dissolves at body temperature, releasing the DHEA for local absorption. This localized delivery system can help to rejuvenate the vaginal mucosa, improve lubrication, and potentially enhance sexual function without significantly affecting hormone levels elsewhere in the body.

For patients, it is important to understand that DHEA vaginal suppositories are used to treat symptoms associated with vaginal atrophy and dryness, which can lead to discomfort during intercourse, urinary issues, and an increased risk of vaginal infections. For prescribers, it is crucial to consider the patient's hormonal profile and any potential interactions with other hormone therapies. Monitoring the patient's response to treatment is also important to ensure efficacy and adjust dosing if necessary.

As compounding pharmacists at Bayview Pharmacy, we are committed to providing high-quality, customized medications to meet the unique needs of each patient. Our team is available to answer any questions and provide guidance on the use of DHEA vaginal suppositories. We can also assist healthcare providers in determining the appropriateness of this formulation for their patients and offer advice on monitoring and adjusting treatment as needed. If you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is an endogenous steroid hormone that is used in various formulations, including vaginal suppositories. When considering the use of DHEA 7 mg vaginal suppositories, it is important to be aware of potential drug interactions that may affect the efficacy and safety of the treatment. DHEA is metabolized by enzymes in the liver, and substances that affect these enzymes may alter the levels of DHEA in the body.

One key interaction is with medications that induce or inhibit cytochrome P450 enzymes, particularly CYP3A4. Drugs that induce CYP3A4, such as certain anticonvulsants (like phenytoin and carbamazepine) and antibiotics (like rifampin), may decrease the systemic levels of DHEA, potentially reducing its effectiveness. Conversely, CYP3A4 inhibitors, including some antifungal agents (like ketoconazole and itraconazole) and HIV protease inhibitors (like ritonavir), may increase systemic levels of DHEA, raising the risk of side effects.

Estrogen-based therapies may also interact with DHEA suppositories. Since DHEA can be converted into estrogens, concurrent use with other estrogenic drugs may lead to an additive effect, increasing the risk of estrogen-related side effects such as endometrial hyperplasia or breast tenderness. Patients with hormone-sensitive conditions, such as certain types of breast or uterine cancers, should use DHEA with caution and under close supervision by a healthcare provider.

Additionally, DHEA may interact with anticoagulants like warfarin. DHEA has been reported to possess anticoagulant properties, which could potentially enhance the effects of warfarin and increase the risk of bleeding. Patients on anticoagulant therapy should have their clotting status monitored closely if they are using DHEA suppositories.

It is also important to consider the potential for DHEA to affect insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. Patients with diabetes or those using medications to control blood glucose levels should be monitored for changes in blood sugar control when starting DHEA therapy.

Because DHEA is a precursor to testosterone, it may interact with androgens and anabolic steroids. The use of DHEA with these substances may exacerbate side effects such as acne, hair loss, or increased aggression. Additionally, DHEA may alter the effects of medications used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostate cancer.

Lastly, over-the-counter supplements, particularly those that affect hormone levels or have hormonal activity, should be used with caution when taking DHEA suppositories. This includes, but is not limited to, supplements containing phytoestrogens, other steroid hormone precursors, or herbal products with hormonal activity.

Given the complexity of potential drug interactions with DHEA, it is crucial for patients and prescribers to review all medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, before starting treatment with DHEA vaginal suppositories. If you have any questions or concerns regarding drug interactions with DHEA, please reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy for personalized advice and guidance.

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a naturally occurring hormone produced by the adrenal glands, gonads, and brain. It serves as a precursor to male and female sex hormones, including estrogen and testosterone. DHEA levels in the body typically peak in early adulthood and decline with age. The 7 mg DHEA vaginal suppository is a solid dosage form designed to be inserted into the vagina, where it dissolves or melts, releasing the active hormone directly at the site of application. This localized delivery system allows for the hormone to exert its effects directly on the vaginal tissues, which can be beneficial in treating certain conditions.

The use of DHEA in the form of a vaginal suppository is particularly relevant for conditions such as vaginal atrophy, a common symptom of menopause. Vaginal atrophy is characterized by thinning, drying, and inflammation of the vaginal walls due to a decrease in estrogen levels. By delivering DHEA locally to the vagina, the suppository can help to alleviate these symptoms. The hormone is absorbed through the vaginal mucosa and converted into estrogen within the local tissues, which can help to restore the normal structure and function of the vaginal walls, improve lubrication, and reduce discomfort during intercourse.

Additionally, DHEA may have systemic benefits when absorbed through the vaginal mucosa, potentially influencing mood, bone density, and overall sexual function. However, the primary intention of the vaginal suppository is to target local tissues and minimize systemic absorption, thereby reducing the risk of side effects that may be associated with higher levels of systemic hormones.

It is important for both patients and prescribers to understand that while DHEA vaginal suppositories can be beneficial for treating certain conditions associated with low hormone levels, they should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. The dosage and duration of treatment should be tailored to the individual's needs and monitored regularly to ensure safety and efficacy. If you have any questions or require further information about the use of DHEA vaginal suppositories, please reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy. Our team of compounding pharmacists is here to provide support and guidance to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a naturally occurring hormone produced by the adrenal glands and serves as a precursor to androgens and estrogens in the body. This vaginal suppository formulation of 7 mg DHEA has been primarily used to address issues such as vaginal atrophy, dryness, and pain during intercourse, which are often symptoms of menopausal and post-menopausal conditions. It may also help increase local levels of estrogens and androgens in the vagina, thereby assisting in maintaining healthy vaginal tissue and sexual function.

In addition to these uses, there has been some research indicating potential systemic benefits of DHEA that could be relevant to conditions such as adrenal insufficiency, depression, and osteoporosis. Moreover, DHEA may have an immunomodulatory effect and could also play a role in the skin's biochemistry, potentially influencing skin hydration and barrier function. It is important to note, however, that the evidence for these systemic effects from a locally applied DHA suppository is limited and not as well established as the local vaginal effects.

While DHEA suppositories are primarily administered vaginally, there is some exploration into the use of DHEA in other areas, such as rectal administration, potentially for conditions like chronic inflammation or immune modulation, or for systemic absorption when vaginal administration is not feasible. It is crucial to emphasize that the safety and efficacy of DHEA for non-vaginally related conditions are not as thoroughly researched, and the off-label use should be approached with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Patients interested in using DHEA for any condition should consult with their healthcare provider to thoroughly assess the risks, benefits, and appropriateness of this therapy for their specific health profile. Prescribers considering this formulation for uses beyond the established indications should be aware of the limited research and should monitor their patients closely for any adverse effects or unexpected outcomes. If you have any questions or need further information about the potential uses of DHEA vaginal suppositories, please reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy, where our knowledgeable team of compounding pharmacists is available to assist you.