DUTASTERIDE

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Avodart

GENERIC NAME(S): DUTASTERIDE

Description: Dutasteride is a selective inhibitor of steroid 5α-reductase resulting to inhibition of the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone and markedly suppresses serum dihydrotestosterone levels.

Uses

This medication is used in men to treat the symptoms of an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia-BPH) by reducing the size of the enlarged prostate. This helps to relieve symptoms of BPH such as difficulty in beginning the flow of urine, weak stream, and the need to urinate frequently or urgently (including during the middle of the night). It may also reduce the need for surgery to treat BPH.

Dutasteride is not approved for prevention of prostate cancer and may slightly increase the risk.

How to use dutasteride

Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. Swallow the medication whole. Do not crush or chew the capsules.

Pregnant women must not handle this drug.

It may take 3 to 6 months to notice an improvement in symptoms. Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they worsen.

Warnings

Not available.

Side Effects

Side effects may range from mild to serious complications. Consult your doctor immediately when you feel the following symptoms: Sexual problems (such as decreased sexual interest/ability, decrease in the amount of semen/sperm), testicle pain/swelling, increased breast size, or breast tenderness.

Seek emergency medical help if you experience allergies (rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing) or the symptoms mentioned above while taking this drug.

Precautions

Precautions

Inform your doctor of your allergies (food or drugs), medical conditions and medical history before taking this drug, especially of: allergies to finasteride.

For pregnant and nursing (breastfeeding) women, consult your doctor before using this medication.

Interactions

Before using this drug, tell your doctor of the current medications, products (herbal/nonprescription) that you are taking.

Overdose & Brands

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets. Discard the drug properly- do not throw in toilet or sink.

Brands

Available Brands:

Avodart [ GlaxoSmithKline ]