Testosterone safety:
Testosterone has been determined to have adverse effects of mainly the skin such as hirsuitism (undesirable hair growth in women) and acne when taken for under 6 months (20). When taken for over 6 months the long term safety is unknown. Some of the research shows positive improvements in bone mass (mild), cognitive ability, body composition, and heart disease but more research is needed (21).
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) use in women:
The adrenal glands use cholesterol to form DHEA in the adrenal cortex, then is converted in peripheral body tissues to produce the hormones testosterone or estrogen. DHEA is not recommended as supplement for treatment of pre or post-menopausal symptoms due to a lack of research on safety, poor efficacy, and unknown long term effects.