Dehydroepiandrosterone (INTRAROSA™, prasterone) is a major C19 steroid produced from cholesterol by the adrenal cortex. It is also produced in small quantities in the testis and the ovary. Dehydroepiandrosterone (INTRAROSA, prasterone) is structurally similar to, and is a precursor of, androstenedione, testosterone, estradiol, estrone and estrogen. It indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe dyspareunia, a symptom of vulvar and vaginal atrophy, due to menopause. The mechanism of action of dehydroepiandrosterone (INTRAROSA, prasterone) in postmenopausal women with vulvar and vaginal atrophy is not fully established.

This compound belongs to the class of organic compounds known as androgens and derivatives. These are 3-hydroxylated C19 steroid hormones. They are known to favor the development of masculine characteristics. They also show profound effects on scalp and body hair in humans. The value of Δ5-diol as a radiation countermeasure is based mainly on its stimulation of production of white blood cells and platelets. Androstenediol used by the body to make testosterone and estrogen. There is some concern that androstenediol might increase the risk of coronary heart disease. There is also developing evidence that androstenediol might help prostate cancer cells grow. Taking androstenediol along with estrogen and testosterone pills might cause too much estrogen or testosterone in the body.