Avodart (Dutasteride)

Avodart is used for treating symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or enlargement of the prostate gland. It also helps to reduce the risk of urinary blockage and the need for prostate surgery. It may also be used along with other medicines (eg, tamsulosin).

Avodart is a 5 alpha-reductase enzyme inhibitor. It works by lowering levels of a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is a major cause of prostate growth. Lowering DHT leads to shrinkage of the enlarged prostate gland.

Do not use Avodart if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Avodart or other 5 alpha-reductase inhibitors (e.g., finasteride) ;
• you are pregnant or a female of childbearing age.

• Avodart is absorbed through the skin. Women who are or may potentially be pregnant must not handle crushed or broken tablets because it may cause harm to the fetus. If contact is made with leaking capsules, the contact area should be washed immediately with soap and water and a doctor should be consulted.
• Avodart stays in the blood stream for 4 to 6 months after you stop taking it. Do not donate blood for at least 6 months after your last dose of Avodart to prevent exposure through a blood transfusion to a pregnant woman.
• Avodart may decrease your volume of ejaculate. This does not appear to interfere with normal sexual function.
• Avodart can affect a blood test called prostate-specific antigen (PSA) for the screening of prostate cancer. If you have a PSA test done, you should tell your doctor that you are taking Avodart.
• Lab tests may be performed to monitor your progress or to check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.
• Avodart is not recommended for use in children; safety and effectiveness have not been confirmed.
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Avodart can cause harm to the fetus. Do not use Avodart if you are pregnant. If you suspect that you could be pregnant, contact your doctor immediately. It is unknown if Avodart is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Avodart.

Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome:

• breast enlargement and/or tenderness, decreased sex drive; decreased volume of ejaculate; inability to have an erection.

• severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue).

Avodart is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.
If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.