What is pregnenolone?
Pregnenolone is an endogenous steroid hormone. It is
synthesized within the body from cholesterol via an
enzyme located in mitochondria. Its production is
controlled by hormones from the pituitary gland, like
ACTH, FSH, & LH. Pregnenolone is biologically active on its

own and also is a precursor of progesterone, mineralocorti-
coids (like aldosterone), glucocorticoids (like cortisol),

androgens (like DHEA and testosterone), and estrogen.
Because it is the precursor to all of these other hormones, it
is sometimes known as ‘the mother hormone.’ This
hormone acts as a “neurosteroid.” It is found in high
concentrations in certain areas of the brain. Pregnenolone

aects synaptic functions, is neuroprotective, and enhanc-
es myelinization. Cholesterol is the precursor to pregneno-
lone. Then pregnenolone can convert to either progester-
one or to 17 alpha hydroxypregnenolone, and thereafter it

can be shunted to cortisol or down a dierent pathway to
DHEA then testosterone and estradiol (estrogen).
Pregnenolone “Steal”
Again, cholesterol is the basic molecule of the endocrine
system. Cholesterol is converted to pregnenolone, and
pregnenolone is building block for many of the other
hormones. When a person is under a great deal of stress,

the endocrine system is activated by the HPA axis- hypo-
thalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis- to increase production of

cortisol and adrenaline (epinephrine). The hypothalamus
makes CRH (corticotropin-releasing hormone) to stimulate
the pituitary gland to make ACTH (adrenocorticotropic
hormone) which stimulates the adrenal glands to produce
cortisol. Cortisol is then released into the blood stream. The
body manufactures cortisol in response to prolonged
stress. Cortisol’s actions in this setting include those to
promote a ght-or-ight response: increased heart rate
and respiration rate; dilated pupils; sweating; inhibited
digestion; suppressed immune activities. The body uses
whatever building blocks it can to synthesize large
amounts of cortisol. This includes diverting pregnenolone,
a building block of steroid hormones, from its normal
function to increased production of cortisol at the expense
of other hormones.
Pregnenolone Uses
There are many potential uses of pregnenolone in clinical
practice, some based on research in animals or humans,
and some based on theoretical utility. Here are some
examples of what practitioners are using pregnenolone for:
PTSD, traumatic brain injury (shortly after the injury has

occurred), allergies, insomnia (dosed in the morning),
adrenal fatigue, focus, mental clarity, memory, social
phobia, anxiety, depressed mood. Pregnenolone in Clinical
Practice Generally it is recommended to have a blood test
to determine pregnenolone levels before and during
supplementation. The ideal lab range is debated and it is
best to consult with your healthcare practitioner to
determine proper dosage.
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Fast Melt Chewable
Servings per container: 120
Pregnenolone 25 mg
Other Ingredients: Waxy Rice Starch, Microcrystalline
Cellulose, Fructose, Xylitol, Stearic Acid, Natural Strawberry
Flavor, Silicon Dioxide, Magnesium Stearate
Suggested Use: As a dietary supplement, take 1 Fast Melt
Chewable daily, or as directed by your healthcare provider.
WARNING:
When used at high doses, this supplement could cause
irritability, overstimulation, or fatigue. Pregnenolone is not
for use in people with a history of seizures, or by pregnant
or lactating women. Not for use by people under age 18.
Pregnenolone may theoretically cause unwanted increases
in DHEA and other sex hormones. Potential side eects
include acne, hair loss, unwanted hair growth, irritability, or
aggression. The potential side eects are due to the
possible increases in DHEA. Monitoring the patient’s blood
work (DHEA and DHEAs) can help mitigate the possibility

of these side eects. Use caution in patients with condi-
tions like PCOS, CAH, breast & prostate cancer (or other

hormone sensitive cancers). In these cases, monitor blood
work closely. Pregnenolone may inhibit medications that
increase activity of GABA, like Neurontin. Discontinue use if

you experience dizziness, blurred vision, or rapid heart-
beat.

Caution: This product may interfere with birth control
medications or devices.