Avodart® | Avodart (Dutasteride) - 0.5mg (30 Capsules)
| Main Use |
Active Integredient |
Marketed Name |
| Enlarged prostate gland |
Dutasteride |
Avodart® |
What is Avodart (Dutasteride)?
- Avodart (Dutasteride) prevents the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the body. DHT is involved in the development of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
- Avodart (Dutasteride) is used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men with an enlarged prostate. Avodart (Dutasteride) helps improve urinary flow and may also reduce your need for prostate surgery later on.
- Avodart (Dutasteride) may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
How should I take Avodart (Dutasteride)?
Take Avodart (Dutasteride) exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take Avodart (Dutasteride) in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor.
Take each dose with a full glass of water.
Avodart (Dutasteride) can be taken with or without food.
Swallow the Avodart (Dutasteride) capsule whole. Do not chew, crush or break the capsule.
It is important to take Avodart (Dutasteride) regularly to get the most benefit.
Do not stop taking Avodart (Dutasteride) without first talking to your doctor. It may take as long as 3 to 6 months of treatment with Avodart (Dutasteride) before you notice improvement in your BPH symptoms.
To be sure Avodart (Dutasteride) is helping your condition, your prostate will need to be checked on a regular basis. Your PSA (prostate-specific antigen) may also be tested to help detect prostate cancer. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.
Store Avodart (Dutasteride) at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Avodart (Dutasteride) capsules may become soft and leaky, or they may stick together if they get too hot. Do not use any capsule that is cracked or leaking. Call your pharmacist for instructions on how to safely dispose of a leaking Avodart (Dutasteride) capsule.
What happens if I overdose?
An overdose of Avodart (Dutasteride) is not expected to produce life-threatening symptoms.
What should I avoid while taking Avodart (Dutasteride)?
Do not donate blood while taking Avodart (Dutasteride) and for at least 6 months after your treatment ends. Avodart (Dutasteride) can be carried in the blood and could cause birth defects if a pregnant women receives a transfusion with blood that contains dutasteride.
Avodart (Dutasteride) side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Other, less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as:
- decreased libido (sex drive);
- decreased amount of semen released during sex;
- impotence (trouble getting or keeping an erection); or
- breast tenderness or enlargement.
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