Avodart

The active ingredient in Avodart is dutasteride. It is a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, which works by blocking an enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a hormone that makes the prostate gland grow larger than usual and is involved in the development of BPH. Therefore, by this mechanism of action, Avodart helps to reduce the symptoms of an enlarged prostate gland such as acute urinary retention in men.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Avodart. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Avodart:

• Take this medication as directed by your physician.
• It is typically taken by mouth once a day, around the same time each day.
• Swallow the capsules whole and do not chew, crush, or open these capsules.

The most common side effects of Avodart seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Reduced libido (sex drive).
• Breast pain, tenderness, or enlargement.
• Impotence (trouble getting or keeping an erection).
• Problems with ejaculation.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Avodart. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Severe allergic reactions including angioedema - skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Breast tissue changes, new lumps, redness, pain, or discharge from the nipple; there have been reports of male breast cancer in men taking dutasteride in clinical studies and during the post-marketing period.
• Increased risk of prostate cancer (high-grade prostate cancer).

These are not all of the possible side effects of Avodart. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Avodart, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including the following:

• Liver disease.
• Prostate cancer.
• Severe allergic reaction to dutasteride or finasteride.
• Are a pregnant woman.
• Breastfeeding.
• It may reduce prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels in your blood; you should still get PSA tests to check for prostate cancer.

• Are currently pregnant.
• Are allergic to dutasteride or any 5-alpha reductase inhibitors.

To notice improvements in an individual's symptoms, it may take 3 to 6 months.

When Avodart is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Antiviral medications for HIV or AIDS.
• Cimetidine.
• Ciprofloxacin.
• CYP3A4 enzyme inhibitors (ritonavir).
• Medications for fungal infections (ketoconazole, itraconazole).
• Diltiazem.
• Saw palmetto or other dietary supplements.
• Verapamil.

Avodart comes as a 0.5 mg soft gelatin capsule.

Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep out of the reach of children.

GlaxoSmithKline is the pharmaceutical company that manufactures Avodart.

There are lower-cost generics available for the brand name Avodart.

Consult with your physician first before stopping or adjusting your use of Avodart.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you. Do not take Avodart if you are pregnant or may be pregnant. Women who are pregnant or could become pregnant should not handle Avodart capsules due to the possible risk to a male fetus. If a woman who can become pregnant accidentally comes into contact with this medication from a leaking capsule, wash the area with soap and water right away.

It is not known if Avodart passes into breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.