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Pregnenolone
Precursor to all steroid hormones (DHEA, progesterone, cortisol, testosterone) that also acts as a neurosteroid supporting cognition and mood.
What the evidence says
Pregnenolone appears to help in 6 of 7 studies with measurable effects — the evidence leans clearly favourable.
Most evidence is from high-quality meta-analyses and randomised trials published 1992–2025 with a typical study size of 60 participants.
Based on 23 studies · 3 meta-analyses · 15 RCTs · 5,127 total participants
Confidence
HighWhat the studies found
By outcome
Pregnenolone has an evidence score of 8.5/10 — very strong evidence based on 23 indexed studies, including 4 meta-analyses. Precursor to all steroid hormones (DHEA, progesterone, cortisol, testosterone) that also acts as a neurosteroid supporting cognition and mood.
The commonly studied dose of Pregnenolone is 5-50mg daily. Individual needs vary — start at the lower end of the range and adjust based on how you respond.
The best time to take Pregnenolone is in the morning. Take it with food. Pregnenolone is the master steroid hormone precursor, synthesized from cholesterol in the mitochondria.
Last reviewed May 2026 · evidence from 39 studies · how we score
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or medication.
Pregnenolone is often called the 'mother of all hormones' because it's the precursor from which all other steroid hormones are made, including DHEA, progesterone, cortisol, estrogen, and testosterone. It's synthesized from cholesterol and declines with age. Beyond its role as a hormone precursor, pregnenolone itself has cognitive-enhancing and mood-supporting effects, particularly as a neurosteroid that modulates GABA receptors.
Converts to multiple hormones
Direct brain effects
Negative modulator of GABA-A
How Pregnenolone works — from molecular targets to health outcomes. Click an edge to see supporting research.This visualization is in beta — pathways are being refined and expanded.
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5-50mg daily
Loading: Start low (5-10mg) and increase gradually
Can be taken without food
| Form | Type |
|---|---|
| 💊Micronized pregnenolone capsules | Recommended |
| 💊Sublingual tablets | Alternative |
| 🧴Topical cream | Alternative |
Micronized forms have better absorption. Sublingual bypasses first-pass metabolism. Start low.
Minimum: 4 weeks
Optimal: 12 weeks
Cycling: 8-12 weeks on, 4 weeks off; monitor hormone levels
Note: Start with low dose and assess response. Morning dosing aligns with natural hormone rhythms.
Dose-response data unavailable. The current published research for Pregnenolone does not provide sufficient dose-specific outcome data to generate reliable dose-response curves.
Refer to the Dosage & Timing section above for recommended dose ranges based on available evidence.
Improved memory and mental clarity
Better mood stability
Improved vitality and energy
Can affect multiple hormone levels
Natural levels decline with age; test levels before supplementing
May interact with hormone therapy
May reduce sedative effects via GABA modulation
Both are steroid hormone precursors — combining may cause excessive hormone stimulation
Tip: Reduce dose
Tip: Reduce dose; may indicate progesterone conversion
Tip: Take in morning only
Pregnenolone is generally safe at recommended doses, with a few precautions worth noting. The most commonly reported side effects are acne, irritability, insomnia. Use caution if any of these apply to you: Hormone-sensitive cancers; Seizure disorders (may lower threshold).
Shatavari
Likely helpsPremier women's tonic in Ayurveda that supports reproductive hormones, fertility, and lactation — the female counterpart to ashwagandha.