Advising Your Patients Eventually drugs like DHEA or androstenedione may indeed prove to have some bona fide uses. But for now, the experts agree, the benefits are uncertain enough and the potential risks serious enough that primary care doctors should be doing all they can to steer patients clear of these supplements. That's no easy matter. Most patients don't voluntarily tell their doctors what they buy at the health food store. Even when physicians ask, many patients won't admit taking supplements for fear they'll be scoffed at.
Physicians have to back up their advice with solid information.
Equally important, adds Dr. Blue, is understanding what lies behind a patient's interest in particular supplements. The only way to win that kid's trust is to talk to him about how to get what he wants safely and effectively through diet and strength training. The same advice holds for older patients drawn to DHEA's promise of youth. It's up to serious scientists and caring doctors to counter those powerful messages with the facts. Peter Jaret is a contributing editor.