What is the Origin of Adrenal Androgen Support?

The concept arises from endocrinology, combining "adrenal" (gland above the kidney), "androgen" (male sex hormone), and "support" (therapeutic intervention). Its clinical application became prominent with the recognition of DHEA as a crucial adrenal precursor hormone that declines with age. This therapeutic focus is rooted in functional medicine and anti-aging endocrinology.

What is the Mechanism of Adrenal Androgen Support?

Support mechanisms typically involve precursor supplementation, such as DHEA, or the use of adaptogenic botanicals that modulate HPA axis signaling. These interventions work to stabilize cortisol rhythms and enhance the enzymatic conversion of cholesterol into adrenal androgens within the zona reticularis. The goal is to promote a healthy androgen-to-cortisol ratio, which is vital for energy, immunity, and mood regulation.

Adrenal Androgen Support

Meaning

Clinical strategy to maintain or restore optimal function of the adrenal glands in producing androgens like DHEA and DHEA-S. This approach addresses sub-optimal adrenal output often associated with chronic stress or aging, aiming to balance the overall hormonal milieu. It is a targeted intervention focused on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the steroidogenesis pathway.