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What is Dutasteride?
Dutasteride 0.5mg capsules, also known by the brand name Avodart is a prescription-only treatment.
How does Dutasteride work?
Dutasteride blocks the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). As a dual 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor, this medicine reduces DHT production. It is in the same group of medicines as Finasteride.
Dutasteride is only suitable for those born male who are aged 18 and over. Children and pregnant women should not take this medication because it can be harmful to the unborn baby.
Low-cost generic Avodart
Dutasteride is the generic version of Avodart, it contains the same active ingredients but generic drugs are often much cheaper.
Dutasteride 0.5mg capsules reviews
How to use Dutasteride 0.5mg capsules
You should take one 0.5mg capsule at the same time daily for best results. The capsule should be swallowed whole and should not be chewed or taken broken capsules to avoid potential irritation in your mouth.
Do NOT take more than the recommended, this won't make the capsules work any better and can increase the risk of side effects.
Always follow the instructions in the leaflet in your box before taking any medicine, get in touch if you have any questions.
Side effects of Dutasteride 0.5mg capsules
Dutasteride side effects
This medicine can cause side effects, though not everyone gets them. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:
- Allergic reactions: skin rash, hives, swelling of the eyelids, face, lips, arms, or legs
Common side effects (up to 1 in 10 people):
- Impotence - this could continue after stopping treatment
- Decreased sex drive - this could continue after stopping treatment
- Ejaculation issues - this could continue after stopping treatment
- Breast enlargement or tenderness (gynecomastia)
- Dizziness (when taken with tamsulosin)
Uncommon side effects (up to 1 in 100 people):
- Heart failure (symptoms: shortness of breath, extreme tiredness, swelling in ankles and legs)
- Hair loss (usually from the body) or hair growth
Unknown frequency:
- Depressed mood
- Pain and swelling in testicles
General warnings:
Depression: This is rare and you should stop treatment with this medicine if you experience this.
Infertility: This can potentially happen to long-term users, however, it should go back to normal after stopping treatment with this medicine.
PSA test: Dutasteride/Finasteride can affect test results, so inform your doctor of your treatment before doing a test.
Breast changes: You should always report any lumps, pain, enlargement, or nipple discharge to your doctor.
Erectile dysfunction: This is a known side effect, you should consult a doctor if you are concerned.
Heart palpitations: This is rare and mainly experienced by men over the age of 60.
Reporting side effects:
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about any side effects, including those not listed.
Report side effects via the Yellow Card Scheme.
Studies and risks:
Users of this medicine have a higher risk of sexual side effects like sexual dysfunction compared to Finasteride users.
Possible increased risk of high-grade prostate cancer; contact your doctor if you have symptoms like blood in the urine or difficulty urinating.
Please speak to our pharmacist if you have any concerns about these issues.
