Avodart Capsules 0.5mg

Avodart Capsules 0.5mg

Specification

Requires Prescription (YES/NO): Yes

Generics

Dutasteride

Used For

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

How it works

Dutasteride works by blocking the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is responsible for prostate enlargement. By lowering DHT levels, this medicine helps shrink the prostate and improve urinary symptoms.

Usage And Safety

Dosage

Adults (men, including elderly): 1 capsule (0.5mg) once daily
Children: Not recommended
Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor

Side Effects

Common:

• Decreased sex drive (libido)
• Erectile dysfunction (impotence)
• Ejaculation problems

Other:

• Breast tenderness or enlargement (gynecomastia)
• Skin rash, itching, hives
• Swelling of face, lips, or limbs
• Dizziness (especially with other prostate medicines)

Rare but serious: Heart failure

Drug Interactions

May interact with:

• Verapamil, diltiazem
• Ritonavir, indinavir (HIV medicines)
• Itraconazole, ketoconazole
• Nefazodone
• Alpha-blockers (e.g., tamsulosin)

Indication

Used to treat enlarged prostate (BPH), helping improve urine flow and reduce symptoms

When not to Use

Do not use if:

• Allergic to dutasteride or similar medicines
• Allergic to soya or peanuts
• Severe liver disease

Precautions

Before starting treatment, rule out other conditions like prostate cancer. Patients with severe urinary obstruction should be closely monitored

Warnings

Women and children must avoid contact with leaking capsules (medicine can be absorbed through skin)
Do not donate blood during treatment and for 6 months after stopping
Caution when used with alpha-blockers due to risk of low blood pressure

Additional Information

Store at room temperature, away from heat and light