Avodart (Dutasteride)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Avodart Used For?
Avodart contains the active ingredient dutasteride and is primarily used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men. BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that can cause urinary difficulties.
Primary Uses
Avodart is used to alleviate symptoms associated with BPH, such as difficulty starting urination, weak urinary stream, frequent urination, and the sensation of incomplete bladder emptying.
How It Works
Dutasteride works by lowering the levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the body, which helps shrink the enlarged prostate and improve urinary symptoms.
Good to know: Avodart is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Avodart
Avodart should be taken as directed by your healthcare provider.
Dosage Instructions
The typical dosage is one capsule taken once daily, which can be consumed with or without food. Swallow the capsule whole with water.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, skip it and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.
Important: Never double the dose if you miss one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Impotence (difficulty maintaining an erection)
- Decreased libido (sex drive)
- Difficulty with ejaculation
- Decreased semen volume
- Dizziness when taken with an alpha blocker
- Hair loss or hair growth changes
- Mood changes, including depression
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Allergic reactions (wheezing, difficulty breathing, swelling of lips or mouth, rash)
- Breast swelling or tenderness
- Testicular pain or swelling
Important Warnings
Certain precautions should be taken before using Avodart.
Who Should Not Take Avodart
Do not use Avodart if you are allergic to dutasteride or any of its ingredients, if you are a woman or child, or if you have severe liver disease.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any other medical conditions or medications you are taking with your doctor before starting Avodart.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should avoid handling leaking capsules, as dutasteride can cause abnormalities in male fetuses. Use a condom during sexual intercourse if your partner is pregnant or may become pregnant.
Drug Interactions
Some medications may interact with Avodart, affecting its efficacy.
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious when driving or operating machinery until you know how Avodart affects you.
Alcohol
Avoid excessive alcohol consumption while taking Avodart.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful before driving or using machinery until you understand how Avodart affects your ability.
Storage
Store Avodart capsules in their original packaging at temperatures below 30°C, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose of Avodart, seek immediate medical attention by contacting your doctor or the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26.
Frequently Asked Questions
It may take several months to see the full benefits of Avodart as it works gradually to reduce prostate size.
Yes, Avodart can be taken with or without food.
No, Avodart is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Avodart suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it may affect your symptoms.
It is advisable to limit alcohol consumption while taking Avodart.
Weight gain is not commonly associated with Avodart, but any concerns should be discussed with your doctor.
Elderly patients can take Avodart, but they should consult their doctor for personalized advice.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.