Drug: Avodart

Introduction to Avodart (Dutasteride)

The generic name for the brand drug Avodart is Dutasteride. This is a prescription medication that has primarily been developed in order to treat the signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) which is also known as an enlarged prostate. Acting as 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, Avodart works by reducing the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone responsible for an enlarged prostate, thus decreasing its size, improving urinary flow and relieving BPH symptoms.

Uses of Avodart

Other possible uses for Avodart other than for BPH include:

           
• Lowering the risk of developing acute urinary retention (AUR) and surgery related to an enlarged prostate.
           
• Male pattern hair loss treatment among others may be considered as off-label uses.
       

Potential Side Effects of Avodart

All medications have side effects and so does Avodart. These may not be experienced by all patients but they should be aware about them:

• Sexual side effects including reduced sex desire, impotence, ejaculation disorder.
• Breast tenderness and swelling

Important Patient Information

Prior to commencing therapy with Avodart, patients should inform their physicians about all medical conditions including whether they have liver disease or not, since this drug is metabolized by the liver. For instance, pregnant women or women who are planning to be so should never touch Avodart capsules because it can pass through the skin and damage a fetus.

How to Take Avodart

Dutasteride/Avodart is an orally administered capsule which may be taken once daily usually with or without meals. It is essential that you follow your doctor’s instructions when taking this medication. Your doctor should be consulted before discontinuing this medication as its cessation may result in reverting its effects.

Conclusion

This condition has been treated well by Avodart after showing good results in terms of reducing the size of an enlarged prostate and improving urinary symptoms; however, patients need to understand its side-effects and share openly with their doctors. Before starting Avodart, patients must therefore weigh its likely benefits against potential risks as evident from its name: benign prostatic hyperplasia.