Generic Name: Dutasteride
Brand Name: Avodart
This medication description is not meant for treatment prescription without the intervention of a specialist
Common Uses:
Avodart is a 5 alpha-reductase enzyme inhibitor. It works by lowering levels of a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is a major cause of prostate growth. Lowering DHT leads to shrinkage of the enlarged prostate gland. It is used for treating symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or enlargement of the prostate gland. It also helps to reduce the risk of urinary blockage and the need for prostate surgery. It may also be used along with other medicines (eg, tamsulosin).
How to use:
Take one 0.5-milligram capsule once a day. The capsule should be swallowed whole. Avodart has not been evaluated for use in children under 18. The capsule can be taken with or without meals.
Warning and Precautions:
Avodart may increase the risk of certain birth defects, including abnormal formation of the genitals in male fetuses. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant must not handle the capsules. Avodart is absorbed through the skin and could result in unintended fetal exposure. If a woman who is pregnant or who may become pregnant comes in contact with leaking capsules, the contact area should be washed immediately with soap and water. If contact occurs, tell your doctor at once.
Avodart stays in the blood stream for 4 to 6 months after you stop taking it. Do not donate blood for at least 6 months after your last dose of Avodart to prevent exposure through a blood transfusion to a pregnant woman.
Avodart may decrease your volume of ejaculate. This does not appear to interfere with normal sexual function.
Avodart may interfere with certain lab tests, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) for the screening of prostate cancer. Be sure your doctor and lab personnel know you are taking Avodart.
Lab tests and medical exams, including rectal exams, may be performed while you take Avodart. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.
Important safety information:
If a pregnant or breastfeeding woman is exposed to Avodart, the drug may harm the developing baby (see "Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding").
You should not donate blood while taking Avodart or for 6 months after stopping treatment to avoid exposing pregnant or breastfeeding women to blood that contains the drug.
Side Effects:
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Avodart. Side effects may include: breast tenderness, decreased sex drive, ejaculation problems, enlarged breasts in males, hives, impotence, itchy spots, rash.
Overdose:
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Do not use this medicine:
if you have any allergic reaction to any component of this medicine
Storage conditions:
Store at room temperature.
All information given above is a summary. You must visit your doctor, pharmacies or health care provider can provide more information about this medicine. Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Do not store medication with end term of storage.
