What is Dutasteride?
Dutasteride is a prescription medicine to prevent and treat symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). During BPH, the Prostate gland enlarges and pinches the urethra, and it causes urinary problems. Using Dutasteride, which is a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, ensures the shrinking of the prostate and eases symptoms of BPH. Also, due to hormonal regulations, Dutasteride helps prevent hair loss in males and treats Androgenic Alopecia, a hereditary condition.
Use Dutasteride when prescribed by a doctor, as it's available under Avodart.
What are the uses of Dutasteride?
Doctor prescribes Dutasteride tablets to treat medical conditions like:
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): Enlarged prostate problem, which is non-cancerous and causes urinary problems.
Androgenic Alopecia (Off-label Use): It's a common hereditary condition that causes progressive hair thinning on the scalp.
How does Dutasteride work?
Dutasteride is a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor that blocks an enzyme that turns testosterone into Dihydrotestosterone(DHT). DHT is a hormone that makes the prostate grow larger than usual, and it might cause BPH problems. Thus, the use of Dutasteride can help to reduce the size of the prostate, which makes it easier to pee. Also, due to hormonal regulation, Dutasteride helps to prevent hair loss problems in men.
How to use Dutasteride?
Use dutasteride oral capsules exactly as your doctor advises you.
As an oral capsule, take it with a glass of water before or after a meal, as suggested.
Make sure to take the exact strength advised to you as long as prescribed.
Never consume a higher dose or double, and neither make any changes in the dosage without consulting a doctor.
What are the side effects of Dutasteride?
The following side effects may appear during the use of Dutasteride:
- Erectile difficulties(Trouble in getting or keeping an erection)
- Lowered sex drive
- Ejaculation issues (delayed or absent)
- Sore or enlarged breasts
If you suspect any of the above-listed side effects, inform a doctor.
What are the interactions for Dutasteride?
What are the precautions and safety advice related to Dutasteride?
- Avoid using Dutasteride capsules if you have an allergy to it.
- Patients with liver problems should use Dutasteride with caution and consult a doctor before use.
- Use of Dutasteride may reduce semen volume, sperm count, and activity, possibly and might affect your fertility. Consult your healthcare provider if concerned.
- Dutasteride treats benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) but does not prevent prostate cancer. So, you may need regular prostate cancer screenings, including PSA tests.
- Please inform your doctor if you are already taking any medicine, supplement, vitamins or herbal problem before considering using Dutasteride.
How to Store Dutasteride?
Store Dutasteride capsules at normal room temperature and avoid humidity and moisture. Keep your medicines away from pets and children and store them safely.
FAQs Related to Dutasteride:
Does Dutasteride increase BP?
Dutasteride alone does not increase blood pressure. However, when combined with tamsulosin, it may cause low blood pressure, dizziness or fainting. Inform your doctor if you have a low blood pressure problem and take medicine for it.
How long should I use Dutasteride?
Dutasteride typically takes 3 to 6 months to show initial effects. A full assessment of its impact on hair loss and regrowth may take about a year. While for prostate health, consider taking as long as advised by a doctor.
What is the best time to take Dutasteride?
Take dutasteride about 30 minutes after meal each day for consistency at fixed intervals, as directed by your doctor.
Which is better, Minoxidil or Dutasteride?
Dutasteride is generally more effective than topical minoxidil in preventing hair loss and promoting regrowth. However, both drugs work differently and can be combined for better results.
Does dutasteride increase hair thickness?
Yes, dutasteride (0.5 mg) can increase hair thickness and is more effective than finasteride (1 mg). Studies show significant improvement in androgenetic alopecia (AGA) patients compared to a placebo.
