Dutasteride

Dutasteride is a dual 5-alpha reductase inhibitor used for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. By blocking both type I and type II 5-alpha reductase enzymes, it achieves a more complete reduction of dihydrotestosterone than finasteride. Generic dutasteride is bioequivalent to branded Avodart and provides the same clinical outcomes at a more accessible price.

How to Take Dutasteride

Swallow one capsule whole once daily, with or without food. Do not open or crush the capsule, as the contents can be absorbed through the skin and mouth lining. Full clinical benefit for BPH symptoms may take three to six months to become apparent, and the effect on PSA levels becomes meaningful after about three months.

Keep taking dutasteride even if symptoms feel the same at first. It works gradually over time, and many men notice the greatest improvement after six months or more of consistent use.

One 0.5 mg capsule once daily. Review after six months to assess benefit.

Common Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Impotence or difficulty getting an erection
• Reduced sex drive
• Ejaculation disorders
• Breast tenderness or breast tissue growth

These sexual side effects occur in a small percentage of men and may improve with continued use or after stopping. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not handle dutasteride capsules, as it can affect the development of a male baby.

Lowers PSA by approximately 50%; adjust readings for prostate cancer screening. Women who are or may become pregnant must not handle damaged capsules due to risk of harm to a male foetus.

Contraindicated in women, children, severe hepatic impairment, and known hypersensitivity to dutasteride or other 5-alpha reductase inhibitors.