Alfuzosin + Dutasteride

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Brand Name

Zyalfa D 10 mg/0.5 mg Tablet , Alfunex D 10mg/0.5mg Tablet 10s ... show more

Approved Treatment Indication:

Prostatic Hyperplasia

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This medicine contains a combination of 2 drugs Alfuzosin and Dutasteride.
Alfuzosin and Dutasteride are both used to treat the same disease or symptom but work in different ways in the body.
Most doctors will advise making sure that each individual medicine is safe and effective before using a combination form.

Summary

What conditions are Alfuzosin and Dutasteride used for?
Alfuzosin and Dutasteride are both used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is a condition characterized by an enlarged prostate gland that can cause urinary problems. These medications help manage symptoms such as difficulty urinating, weak urine flow, and the need to urinate frequently or urgently.
How do Alfuzosin and Dutasteride work in the body?
Alfuzosin works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, which helps improve urine flow and reduce BPH symptoms quickly. Dutasteride, on the other hand, works by inhibiting the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to prostate growth, thereby reducing the size of the prostate over time.
What are the usual dosages and routes of administration for Alfuzosin and Dutasteride?
The usual dose for Alfuzosin is 10 mg, taken as an extended-release tablet once daily, immediately after the same meal each day to ensure proper absorption. Dutasteride is typically taken as a 0.5 mg capsule once a day, which can be taken with or without food. Both medications are taken orally.
What are the most commonly observed adverse effects of Alfuzosin and Dutasteride?
Common side effects of Alfuzosin include dizziness, headache, and fatigue. Dutasteride may cause impotence, decreased libido, and ejaculation disorders. Both medications can cause allergic reactions, such as swelling and difficulty breathing, and patients should consult their healthcare provider if they experience any severe or persistent symptoms.
What are the important safety warnings and contraindications for Alfuzosin and Dutasteride?
Dutasteride is contraindicated in women, especially those who are or may become pregnant, due to the risk of fetal harm. Alfuzosin should not be used in patients with moderate to severe liver impairment and should not be combined with potent CYP3A4 inhibitors. Both medications can cause hypotension, so caution is advised when used with other blood pressure-lowering drugs.

Government Approvals

None

WHO Essential Medicine

Known Teratogen

Pharmaceutical Class

5-alpha Reductase Inhibitor and Alpha-Adrenergic Blocker

Controlled Drug Substance

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Summary

What conditions are Alfuzosin and Dutasteride used for?
Alfuzosin and Dutasteride are both used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is a condition characterized by an enlarged prostate gland that can cause urinary problems. These medications help manage symptoms such as difficulty urinating, weak urine flow, and the need to urinate frequently or urgently.
How do Alfuzosin and Dutasteride work in the body?
Alfuzosin works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, which helps improve urine flow and reduce BPH symptoms quickly. Dutasteride, on the other hand, works by inhibiting the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to prostate growth, thereby reducing the size of the prostate over time.
What are the usual dosages and routes of administration for Alfuzosin and Dutasteride?
The usual dose for Alfuzosin is 10 mg, taken as an extended-release tablet once daily, immediately after the same meal each day to ensure proper absorption. Dutasteride is typically taken as a 0.5 mg capsule once a day, which can be taken with or without food. Both medications are taken orally.
What are the most commonly observed adverse effects of Alfuzosin and Dutasteride?
Common side effects of Alfuzosin include dizziness, headache, and fatigue. Dutasteride may cause impotence, decreased libido, and ejaculation disorders. Both medications can cause allergic reactions, such as swelling and difficulty breathing, and patients should consult their healthcare provider if they experience any severe or persistent symptoms.
What are the important safety warnings and contraindications for Alfuzosin and Dutasteride?
Dutasteride is contraindicated in women, especially those who are or may become pregnant, due to the risk of fetal harm. Alfuzosin should not be used in patients with moderate to severe liver impairment and should not be combined with potent CYP3A4 inhibitors. Both medications can cause hypotension, so caution is advised when used with other blood pressure-lowering drugs.

Indications and Purpose

What is combination of Dutasteride and Alfuzosin used for?

Dutasteride and Alfuzosin are both indicated for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition characterized by an enlarged prostate gland. Dutasteride is used to treat symptoms of BPH and may reduce the risk of acute urinary retention and the need for surgery. Alfuzosin is used to alleviate urinary symptoms associated with BPH, such as difficulty urinating and incomplete bladder emptying. Both medications aim to improve urinary flow and reduce BPH symptoms, but they work through different mechanisms in the body.

How does combination of Dutasteride and Alfuzosin work?

Dutasteride works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which is responsible for converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to prostate enlargement. By reducing DHT levels, Dutasteride helps decrease prostate size over time. Alfuzosin, on the other hand, is an alpha-blocker that relaxes the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, improving urine flow and reducing symptoms of BPH. While both medications target symptoms of BPH, Dutasteride focuses on hormonal pathways, whereas Alfuzosin acts on muscle relaxation.

How effective is combination of Dutasteride and Alfuzosin?

Clinical trials have demonstrated the effectiveness of both Dutasteride and Alfuzosin in treating symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Dutasteride has been shown to reduce prostate size and lower the risk of acute urinary retention and the need for BPH-related surgery. Alfuzosin has been proven to improve urinary flow and reduce symptoms such as difficulty urinating and incomplete bladder emptying. Both medications have been studied extensively, with results indicating significant improvements in BPH symptoms compared to placebo. While Dutasteride works by reducing hormone levels that cause prostate growth, Alfuzosin acts by relaxing muscle tension in the prostate and bladder neck.

How does one know if combination of Dutasteride and Alfuzosin is working?

The benefits of Dutasteride and Alfuzosin are assessed by monitoring improvements in symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), such as urinary flow rate, reduction in urinary retention, and decrease in the need for BPH-related surgery. Dutasteride's effectiveness is also measured by reductions in prostate size and levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Alfuzosin's benefits are evaluated through its ability to relieve urinary symptoms quickly by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck. Both medications require regular follow-up with a healthcare provider to ensure they are working effectively and to adjust treatment if necessary.

Directions for Use

What is the usual dose of combination of Dutasteride and Alfuzosin?

The usual adult daily dose for Dutasteride is 0.5 mg, taken as a single capsule once a day. For Alfuzosin, the typical dose is 10 mg, taken as an extended-release tablet once daily, immediately after the same meal each day. Both medications are taken orally, but Dutasteride can be taken with or without food, while Alfuzosin should be taken with food to ensure proper absorption. It's important to follow the prescribed dosage and not to alter the dose without consulting a healthcare provider.

How does one take combination of Dutasteride and Alfuzosin?

Dutasteride can be taken with or without food, but it should be taken at the same time each day for consistency. Alfuzosin should be taken immediately after the same meal each day to ensure proper absorption, as taking it on an empty stomach can reduce its effectiveness. Patients taking Alfuzosin should avoid grapefruit juice, as it can interact with the medication. Both medications should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed. It's important to follow the healthcare provider's instructions and not to alter the dosage without consultation.

For how long is combination of Dutasteride and Alfuzosin taken?

Dutasteride is typically used long-term, as it may take 6 months or more to see the full benefits in reducing prostate size and symptoms of BPH. Alfuzosin is also used for long-term management of BPH symptoms, providing more immediate relief of urinary issues. Both medications are intended for continuous use to manage symptoms effectively, and patients should not stop taking them without consulting their healthcare provider. Regular monitoring by a healthcare professional is recommended to assess the effectiveness and adjust treatment as necessary.

How long does it take for combination of Dutasteride and Alfuzosin to work?

Dutasteride may take up to 3 months to show improvement in symptoms, with full benefits potentially taking 6 months or longer. Alfuzosin, on the other hand, typically starts working within a few hours to improve urinary flow and reduce symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). While Dutasteride works by reducing the size of the prostate over time, Alfuzosin provides more immediate relief by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck. Both medications are used to manage symptoms of BPH, but they act on different aspects of the condition.

How does one store combination of Dutasteride and Alfuzosin?

Dutasteride and Alfuzosin do not require refrigeration. Both medications should be stored at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture, and kept in their original containers with the lids tightly closed. It's important to keep these medications out of reach of children and to dispose of any unused or expired medication properly, preferably through a medicine take-back program. Neither medication should be stored in the bathroom, as the humidity can affect their stability.

Warnings and Precautions

Are there harms and risks from taking combination of Dutasteride and Alfuzosin?

Common side effects of Dutasteride include impotence, decreased libido, and ejaculation disorders. Serious side effects may include breast changes and an increased risk of high-grade prostate cancer. Alfuzosin may cause dizziness, headache, and fatigue, with serious side effects including postural hypotension and syncope. Both medications can cause allergic reactions, such as swelling and difficulty breathing. Patients should be aware of these potential side effects and consult their healthcare provider if they experience any severe or persistent symptoms. Regular monitoring is recommended to manage and mitigate these effects.

Can I take combination of Dutasteride and Alfuzosin with other prescription drugs?

Dutasteride can interact with medications like cimetidine, which may affect its metabolism. Alfuzosin should not be used with potent CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole and ritonavir, as these can increase alfuzosin blood levels. Both medications may interact with other drugs that affect blood pressure, such as antihypertensives and nitrates, potentially leading to hypotension. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking to avoid adverse interactions and ensure safe use of Dutasteride and Alfuzosin.

Can I take combination of Dutasteride and Alfuzosin with vitamins or supplements?

There are no specific interactions between Dutasteride or Alfuzosin and vitamins or supplements mentioned in the provided information. However, it is always advisable for patients to inform their healthcare provider about all the supplements and vitamins they are taking. This is important because some supplements can affect the metabolism of medications or exacerbate side effects. Patients should follow their healthcare provider's advice regarding the use of supplements while on these medications.

Can I take combination of Dutasteride and Alfuzosin if I am pregnant?

Dutasteride is contraindicated during pregnancy as it can cause harm to a male fetus by inhibiting the development of male genitalia. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not handle Dutasteride capsules, as the drug can be absorbed through the skin. Alfuzosin is not indicated for use in women and should not be used during pregnancy. Both medications are intended for use in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and pose significant risks if used by pregnant women.

Can I take combination of Dutasteride and Alfuzosin while breastfeeding?

Dutasteride is not indicated for use in women and is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation due to the risk of fetal harm. There is no information available on the presence of Dutasteride in human milk. Similarly, Alfuzosin is not indicated for use in women, and there is no data on its presence in human milk or its effects on a breastfed child. Both medications are intended for use in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and should not be used by women, particularly those who are breastfeeding.

Who should avoid taking combination of Dutasteride and Alfuzosin?

Dutasteride is contraindicated in women, especially those who are or may become pregnant, due to the risk of fetal harm. It should not be used by individuals with known hypersensitivity to the drug. Alfuzosin is contraindicated in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment and should not be used with potent CYP3A4 inhibitors. Both medications can cause hypotension, so caution is advised when used with other blood pressure-lowering drugs. Patients should be aware of the potential for allergic reactions and report any severe side effects to their healthcare provider immediately.