Avodart(Dutasteride, Avidart, Avolve, Duagen, Dutas, Dutagen, Duprost)
Avodart Review
Avodart (dutasteride) is used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men with an enlarged prostate. Avodart has been shown to:
- reduce prostate size, improve urinary flow and symptoms of BPH;
- reduce the risk of acute urinary retention (AUR);
- reduce the risk of the need for BPH related surgery.
Avodart should never be taken by a woman or a child.
Avodart - How does it Work?
Avodart blocks an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase, which is necessary to change testosterone to another hormone that causes the prostate to grow. As a result, the size of the prostate is decreased. The effect of Avodart on the prostate lasts only as long as the medicine is taken. If it is stopped, the prostate begins to grow again.
Avodart - How to Take
Take 1 capsule once a day. The capsule should be swallowed whole and can be taken with or without meals.Take each dose with a full glass of water. Do not chew, crush or break the capsule. It is important to take Avodart regularly to get the most benefit. Do not stop taking Avodart without first talking to your doctor. It may take as long as 3 to 6 months of treatment with Avodart before you notice improvement in your BPH symptoms. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Avodart - Possible Side Effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Other, less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as:
- decreased libido (sex drive);
- decreased amount of semen released during sex;
- impotence (trouble getting or keeping an erection); or
- breast tenderness or enlargement.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
Avodart Precautions
Avodart can be absorbed through the skin, and women or children should not be permitted to handle Avodart capsules. Do not donate blood while taking Avodart and for at least 6 months after your treatment ends. Avodart can be carried in the blood and could cause birth defects if a pregnant woman receives a transfusion with blood that contains Avodart.
Avodart Storage
Store Avodart at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Avodart capsules may become soft and leaky, or they may stick together if they get too hot. Do not use any capsule that is cracked or leaking. Call your pharmacist for instructions on how to safely dispose of a leaking Avodart.
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