Dutasteride, Avodart
Description: 5 Alpha-Reductase Inhibitor
CSA NA – FDA Approved – REMS (N) – Can Ship
How Does It Work
Dutasteride/Avodart is a modified analog of testosterone that is a selective inhibitor of type one (in liver and skin tissue) and two (in reproductive tissue) 5 alpha-reductase. Inhibiting 5 alpha-reductase reduces the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone which is a causative agent in benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate).
Indications For Use
Dutasteride/Avodart is indicated for benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate)
Precautions
Before starting Dutasteride/Avodart make sure your physician is aware of any allergies, or medications you currently take if you have liver disease or any risk factors for prostate cancer. Investigation for obstructive uropathy should be done prior to treatment as this medication is not indicated for such.
Usual Dosing
0.5mg once daily
Pharmacist Tips On Using
How to Take: Follow instructions provided by physician/pharmacy label, swallow whole, take consistently at same times each day, store at room temperature
You Need to Avoid: Do not stop this medication if there is no immediate relief. This medication works by shrinking the prostate over time to increase urinary flow so be patient.
Side Effects
Decreased libido, gynecomastia (growth/tenderness of breast tissue in men), increase of testosterone, luteinizing hormone, and thyroid stimulating hormone, impotence
Note this is not a complete list of side effects, only relatively common ones (under 10% of patients experience any of the above)
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I do if side effects are intolerable?
If side effects are causing a lot of distress speak to your physician as soon as possible to discuss options.