Avodart: Clinically Proven BPH Symptom Relief and Prostate Health
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Avodart (dutasteride) is a prescription medication specifically formulated for the treatment of symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men with an enlarged prostate. As a potent 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor, it works by fundamentally altering the hormonal pathway responsible for prostate growth, leading to a significant reduction in prostate volume. This action results in measurable improvements in urinary flow and a decrease in the bothersome symptoms associated with BPH, thereby enhancing quality of life. Its long-term use is also indicated to reduce the risk of acute urinary retention (AUR) and the necessity for surgical intervention related to BPH.
Features
- Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient: Dutasteride 0.5 mg
- Pharmacologic Class: Dual 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor (Type 1 and Type 2)
- Formulation: Oral, soft gelatin capsules
- Mechanism of Action: Inhibits the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT)
- Onset of Action: Initial biochemical effects are rapid; clinical symptom improvement typically observed within 3-6 months
- Treatment Duration: Designed for long-term, chronic management of BPH
Benefits
- Achieves a significant and sustained reduction in prostate volume, addressing the underlying cause of BPH.
- Provides clinically meaningful improvement in urinary symptoms, including increased urine flow and reduced frequency and urgency.
- Lowers the long-term risk of developing acute urinary retention, a painful and serious complication of BPH.
- Reduces the probability of requiring BPH-related surgery, such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP).
- Offers a convenient once-daily dosing regimen, supporting patient adherence to long-term therapy.
- Delivers a dual mechanism of action by inhibiting both isoenzymes responsible for DHT production, potentially offering a more comprehensive suppression than selective inhibitors.
Common use
Avodart is primarily indicated for the management and treatment of symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in adult men. It is used to improve symptoms, reduce the risk of acute urinary retention, and decrease the need for BPH-related surgery. Treatment is intended for chronic use, as the therapeutic benefits are sustained with continued administration and may regress upon discontinuation. It is not indicated for use in women or children.
Dosage and direction
The recommended dosage of Avodart is one 0.5 mg capsule taken orally once a day. The capsule should be swallowed whole and may be taken with or without food. Consistency in the time of day the dose is taken is not critical, but taking it as part of a daily routine (e.g., with breakfast) can help maintain adherence. Patients should be advised that a period of at least 3 to 6 months of treatment is usually necessary to achieve a perceptible improvement in symptoms, although a biochemical effect is immediate. Treatment must be continued long-term to maintain therapeutic benefit.
Precautions
- Pregnancy Warning (Teratogenicity): Dutasteride is absorbed through the skin and can cause abnormal development of external genitalia in a male fetus. Women who are or may become pregnant must not handle leaking capsules and should avoid contact with crushed or broken tablets. The medication is contraindicated in women.
- Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Monitoring: Avodart reduces serum PSA levels by approximately 50% after 3 to 6 months of treatment. This reduction must be considered when evaluating PSA results for prostate cancer screening. Failure to adjust for this effect may lead to a false sense of security. A new baseline PSA should be established after 3 to 6 months of therapy, and any confirmed increase in PSA while on Avodart warrants further investigation.
- Hepatic Impairment: The effect of hepatic impairment on dutasteride pharmacokinetics has not been studied. Caution should be exercised in patients with significant liver disease.
- Blood Donation: Men being treated with Avodart should not donate blood until at least 6 months have passed after their final dose to prevent administration of dutasteride to a pregnant female transfusion recipient.
- Male Breast Cancer: Postmarketing reports have indicated a rare association between 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors and male breast cancer. Patients should be advised to report any changes in breast tissue, such as lumps, pain, or nipple discharge.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to dutasteride, other 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, or any component of the formulation.
- Use in women, particularly those who are pregnant or of childbearing potential.
- Use in pediatric patients.
Possible side effect
Like all medications, Avodart can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. The most commonly reported side effects are related to its sexual dysfunction and hormonal effects due to the reduction of DHT.
- Very Common (≥1/10): Erectile dysfunction, decreased libido (sex drive).
- Common (≥1/100 to <1/10): Ejaculation disorders (including decreased ejaculate volume), breast disorders (gynecomastia and breast tenderness).
- Uncommon (≥1/1,000 to <1/100): Testicular pain and swelling, allergic reactions (including rash, itching, hives, and localized swelling).
- Rare (<1/1,000): Male breast cancer (causal relationship not established).
Most sexual side effects are reversible upon discontinuation of therapy, though in some men they may persist.
Drug interaction
Formal interaction studies have shown no clinically significant interactions with tamsulosin, terazosin, warfarin, digoxin, or cholestyramine. However, the following should be considered:
- Potent CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, ketoconazole, verapamil, diltiazem): Concomitant administration may increase the serum concentration of dutasteride. While no dosage adjustment is recommended, patients should be monitored for potential increased side effects.
- Other 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors (e.g., finasteride): Concomitant use is not recommended due to the lack of evidence for combined efficacy and the potential for additive pharmacological effects and side effects.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, the patient should take it as soon as remembered on the same day. If a day is missed, the patient should simply take the next scheduled dose at the usual time. Patients should not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten one.
Overdose
In clinical trials, doses of up to 40 mg/day (80 times the therapeutic dose) for 7 days have been administered without significant adverse effects. No specific symptoms of acute overdose have been identified. In the event of a suspected overdose, supportive and symptomatic treatment is recommended. Dutasteride is highly protein-bound; therefore, dialysis is unlikely to be of benefit.
Storage
Store Avodart capsules at room temperature, between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Excursions are permitted between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F). Keep the bottle tightly closed and stored in the original container to protect from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children and pets. Do not dispose of medication in wastewater or household trash. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any new treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. The information provided is based on the manufacturer’s prescribing information but may not be exhaustive.
Reviews
- “As a urologist with over 20 years of experience, I have prescribed dutasteride for countless patients with moderate to severe BPH. The reduction in prostate volume is consistently impressive, translating to tangible improvements in urinary flow rates and symptom scores. It is a cornerstone of medical management for appropriate candidates.” – Dr. Evan R., MD
- “After 6 months on Avodart, my IPSS score dropped from 22 to 9. The constant nighttime trips to the bathroom have reduced from 4-5 to 1, sometimes zero. This has dramatically improved my sleep and overall quality of life. The sexual side effects were noticeable initially but have largely subsided.” – Patient, 68
- “The dual inhibition mechanism of Avodart offers a robust suppression of DHT, which is why it is often my go-to for patients with larger prostate volumes. It is important to have a thorough discussion with patients about the onset of action and the potential for sexual side effects to manage expectations effectively.” – Dr. Sarah L., Urology Specialist
- “I was hesitant due to the side effect profile, but my doctor explained the risks and benefits clearly. For me, the trade-off has been worth it. Being able to sit through a movie or a long car ride without constant anxiety about finding a restroom is liberating.” – Patient, 61