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Dutasteride

Prostatic Hyperplasia

DRUG STATUS

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Approvals

US(FDA), UK(BNF)

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Essential Medicine

NO

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Teratogenicity

N/A

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Pharmaceutical Class

5-alpha Reductase Inhibitor

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Drug Ingredient

Dutasteride

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Summary

  • Dutasteride is used to treat conditions such as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) and Male Pattern Baldness. It helps reduce prostate size, improving urinary flow and reducing symptoms like frequent urination. It can also slow down hair loss and promote hair regrowth.

  • Dutasteride works by blocking the production of a hormone called DHT (dihydrotestosterone) in the body. DHT is responsible for causing the prostate gland to enlarge and contributes to hair thinning. By reducing DHT levels, dutasteride helps to shrink the enlarged prostate in most men and slow down hair loss.

  • The usual dosage for Dutasteride is one capsule once a day. The capsule should be swallowed whole and can be taken with or without food. Do not crush or chew the capsule.

  • The most common side effects of Dutasteride include problems with erections, low sex drive, breast tenderness and difficulty ejaculating. Some men may stop taking the medicine because of erection problems. Serious side effects like allergic reactions and severe skin reactions are rare but possible.

  • Dutasteride is harmful to unborn babies especially male babies. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not touch or handle dutasteride capsules. If a pregnant woman comes into contact with dutasteride, it could cause birth defects in her male baby. Men taking dutasteride should not donate blood for at least 6 months after their last dose.

Indications and Purpose

What is Dutasteride used for?

Dutasteride is primarily used for:

  1. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): To treat an enlarged prostate, relieving symptoms like difficulty urinating, frequent urination, and incomplete bladder emptying.
  2. Male Pattern Baldness (off-label use): Occasionally used to slow hair loss and promote regrowth by reducing the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

Always use Dutasteride as prescribed and consult your doctor for its suitability.

How does Dutasteride work?

Dutasteride capsules can help shrink an enlarged prostate by blocking the production of a hormone called DHT (dihydrotestosterone). DHT can cause the prostate to grow larger, leading to problems with urination. By reducing DHT levels, dutasteride can help improve urinary symptoms and reduce the risk of surgery.

Is Dutasteride effective?

Dutasteride is effective for reducing prostate size, improving urine flow in BPH, and slowing hair loss in male pattern baldness (off-label). Effects may take months. Follow medical advice.

How does one know if Dutasteride is working?

You may notice improved urinary symptoms, such as easier flow or reduced urgency, or slowed hair loss (if used for hair loss). Full effects may take 3-6 months. Your doctor may monitor progress through tests or symptom evaluation.

Directions for Use

How do I take Dutasteride?

1 capsule once a day, swallowed whole with or without food. Do not crush, chew, or open capsules because the contents can irritate your mouth or throat.

For how long do I take Dutasteride?

Dutasteride capsules take time to show results. You'll usually need to take them for at least 6 months to see if they're working.

How long does it take for Dutasteride to start working?

Dutasteride capsules may start to improve your symptoms after 3 months of treatment. However, you may need to take the medication for at least 6 months to see if it will be effective for you.

How should I store Dutasteride?

Store Dutasteride at room temperature (20°C to 25°C), in its original container, away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. Avoid freezing.

Warnings and Precautions

Who should avoid taking Dutasteride?

Avoid Dutasteride if you’re pregnant, allergic, have liver disease, or plan to donate blood within 6 months of use. Always consult a doctor.

Can I take Dutasteride with other prescription drugs?

Taking dutasteride with certain medications can affect how it works. If you're also taking ritonavir (used for HIV), verapamil or diltiazem (for high blood pressure or heart problems), talk to your doctor. These medications may change the amount of dutasteride in your body. Dutasteride does not affect digoxin (for heart problems) or warfarin (a blood thinner).

Can I take Dutasteride with vitamins or supplements?

Yes, you can generally take Dutasteride with vitamins or supplements, but check with your doctor to avoid interactions, especially with saw palmetto or other prostate-related supplements.

Can Dutasteride be taken safely while pregnant?

No, Dutasteride should not be taken or handled by pregnant individuals, as it can harm the developing fetus, particularly male fetuses.

Can Dutasteride be taken safely while breastfeeding?

Dutasteride is a medication not suitable for women. It is unknown if it passes into breast milk or affects the baby or milk production.

Is Dutasteride safe for the elderly?

Older people showed no significant differences in safety or effectiveness compared to younger subjects. However, it's possible that some older individuals may be more sensitive to the medication. No dosage adjustment is necessary for people with kidney problems. The effect of liver problems on dutasteride is unknown.

Is it safe to exercise while taking Dutasteride?

Exercising while taking Dutasteride is safe and can even be beneficial. Regular exercise, especially activities like walking or yoga, may improve symptoms of an enlarged prostate and support overall health. Just listen to your body—if you feel dizzy or tired, take it easy and rest. If you’re starting a new or intense exercise routine, consult your doctor to ensure it’s suitable for you.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Dutasteride?

Yes, drinking alcohol occasionally or in moderation is generally safe while taking Dutasteride. Alcohol does not directly interfere with how the medicine works or its effectiveness. However, excessive alcohol use may worsen certain side effects like dizziness or a depressed mood, which are sometimes associated with Dutasteride.