Effects of dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS) replacement on insulin action and quality of life in hypopituitary females: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study

SummaryObjective Addition of dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS) to standard pituitary replacement may improve quality of life and glucose metabolism. Conflicting results from the previous work probably relate to differences in populations studied and assessment techniques used. We examined the effects of DHEAS on insulin action and the quality of life in female patients with hypopituitary hypoadrenalism. Design Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover design was used. Patients received either DHEAS 50 mg daily or placebo for 12 weeks. Patients Fourteen hypopituitary females on stable standard replacement therapy and with low DHEAS were enrolled. Measurements Insulin action by euglycaemic hyperinsulinaemic clamp and extensive quality of life parameters were assessed after each treatment. Results Serum DHEAS (DHEAS 5·4 ± 0·8 vs placebo