Avodart prevents the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the body. DHT is involved in the development of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Avodart is used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men with an enlarged prostate. Dutasteride helps improve urinary flow and may also reduce your need for prostate surgery later on.
Avodart is sometimes given with another medication called tamsulosin (Flomax). Be sure to read the medication guide or patient instructions provided with each of your medications.
The health and medical information provided here is for general purposes only and is not a substitute for the expertise and judgment of your physician, or other health care professional. It should not be understood to indicate that the use of this medicine is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Always consult your health care professional before using this, or any other, drug.
Before taking Avodart, tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this medication, or to a similar medicine called finasteride (Propecia, Proscar).
Do not chew, crush, or open a Avodart capsule. Swallow the capsule whole. Dutasteride can irritate your lips, mouth, or throat if the capsule has been broken or opened before you swallow it. Avodart should never be taken by a woman or a child. Dutasteride can be absorbed through the skin, and women or children should not be permitted to handle Avodart . Although dutasteride is not for use by women, this medication can cause birth defects if a woman is exposed to it during pregnancy. Avodart should not be handled by a woman who is pregnant or who may become pregnant. If a woman accidentally comes into contact with this medication from a leaking capsule, wash the area with soap and water right away.
Do not donate blood while taking Avodart and for at least 6 months after your treatment ends. Avodart can be carried in the blood and could cause birth defects if a pregnant women receives a transfusion with blood that contains dutasteride.
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.
Less serious Avodart side effects may include:
decreased libido (sex drive);
decreased amount of semen released during sex;
impotence (trouble getting or keeping an erection); or
breast tenderness or enlargement.
Take Avodart exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Take this medicine with a full glass of water.
Avodart can be taken with or without food.
Do not chew, crush, or open a Avodart capsule. Swallow the capsule whole. Dutasteride can irritate your lips, mouth, or throat if the capsule has been broken or opened before you swallow it. It may take up to 6 months of using this medicine before your symptoms improve. For best results, keep using the medication as directed. Do not stop taking Avodart without talking to your doctor.
To be sure this medication 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 at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Avodart 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 Doctor for instructions on how to safely dispose of a leaking capsule.
