Avodart: Clinically Proven BPH Symptom Relief
| Product dosage: 0.5mg | |||
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Avodart (dutasteride) is a prescription medication specifically formulated for the treatment of symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men with an enlarged prostate. As a potent 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor, it works by reducing the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to prostate growth. This action leads to a decrease in prostate size, improving urinary flow and reducing associated symptoms over time. Clinical studies have demonstrated its efficacy in alleviating BPH-related discomfort and preventing disease progression, making it a cornerstone in urological management.
Features
- Contains dutasteride 0.5 mg as the active ingredient
- Available in soft gelatin capsules for oral administration
- Dual inhibitor of both type 1 and type 2 isoforms of 5-alpha-reductase
- Once-daily dosing regimen for patient convenience
- Manufactured under strict pharmaceutical quality standards
- Requires prescription and medical supervision for use
Benefits
- Significantly reduces prostate volume, leading to improved urinary flow
- Decreases the risk of acute urinary retention and the need for BPH-related surgery
- Alleviates bothersome lower urinary tract symptoms such as hesitancy, weak stream, and nocturia
- Provides long-term management of BPH with consistent use
- Well-established safety profile supported by extensive clinical data
- Contributes to enhanced quality of life through symptom control
Common use
Avodart is primarily indicated for the management of symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia in adult men. It is used to improve symptoms, reduce the risk of acute urinary retention, and decrease the likelihood of requiring surgical intervention such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). Treatment is typically long-term, as therapeutic effects on prostate size and symptom improvement develop gradually over several months of continuous therapy. It may be used as monotherapy or in combination with alpha-blockers like tamsulosin for enhanced symptomatic relief in appropriate patients.
Dosage and direction
The recommended dosage of Avodart is one 0.5 mg capsule taken orally once daily, with or without food. The capsule should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed. Patients should be advised to take the medication at approximately the same time each day to maintain consistent drug levels. Therapeutic response may not be immediate, and patients should continue treatment as prescribed even if symptoms do not improve right away. Maximum therapeutic effect typically occurs after 6-12 months of continuous therapy. Dosage adjustment is not necessary for elderly patients or those with renal impairment, but caution is advised in hepatic impairment.
Precautions
Avodart is contraindicated in women and children. Women who are or may become pregnant must avoid handling crushed or broken capsules due to risk of absorption through the skin and potential fetal harm. Patients should be informed that volume reduction occurs gradually and symptomatic improvement may take 3-6 months. Regular monitoring of PSA levels is required, as Avodart reduces serum PSA concentrations by approximately 50% after 6 months of treatment. Any sustained increase in PSA while on Avodart should be carefully evaluated as it may indicate prostate cancer. Patients should report any breast changes such as lumps, pain, or nipple discharge promptly. Blood donation is prohibited during and for 6 months after treatment due to potential risk to pregnant transfusion recipients.
Contraindications
Avodart is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to dutasteride, other 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, or any component of the formulation. It must not be used in women, particularly those who are pregnant or may become pregnant, due to the risk of abnormalities in male fetal genital development. Pediatric patients should not use this medication. Patients with severe hepatic impairment should use Avodart with caution and only if potential benefits outweigh risks. Concomitant use with potent CYP3A4 inhibitors may require careful monitoring due to increased dutasteride exposure.
Possible side effect
The most common adverse reactions include decreased libido (3%), erectile dysfunction (4%), ejaculation disorders (2%), and breast enlargement and tenderness (1%). These sexual side effects may persist after discontinuation of treatment in some patients. Less frequently reported effects include dizziness, headache, and hypersensitivity reactions including rash, pruritus, urticaria, and localized edema. Rare cases of male breast cancer have been reported in clinical trials and post-marketing surveillance. Depression and anxiety have been observed in some patients. Laboratory abnormalities may include reduced sperm count, though this effect appears reversible upon discontinuation.
Drug interaction
Avodart undergoes extensive metabolism by CYP3A4 enzymes. Concomitant administration with potent CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ritonavir, ketoconazole, verapamil, diltiazem, cimetidine, or erythromycin may increase dutasteride exposure. Although no dosage adjustment is recommended, careful monitoring is advised. No clinically significant interactions have been observed with tamsulosin, warfarin, digoxin, or cholestyramine. Concurrent use with other 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors is not recommended. Alpha-adrenergic blockers may be used concomitantly with Avodart, but patients should be monitored for potential additive effects.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, patients should take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Maintaining consistent dosing is important for optimal therapeutic effect, but occasional missed doses are unlikely to significantly affect long-term treatment outcomes. Patients should be advised to establish a routine to minimize missed doses.
Overdose
In case of suspected overdose, symptomatic and supportive care is recommended. Single doses of Avodart up to 40 mg have been administered without significant adverse effects. Due to the drug’s high protein binding and large volume of distribution, dialysis is unlikely to be beneficial. Symptoms of overdose may include dizziness, headache, and gastrointestinal disturbances. Medical attention should be sought immediately, and treatment should focus on managing presenting symptoms. There is no specific antidote for dutasteride overdose.
Storage
Avodart capsules should be stored at room temperature between 15-30°C (59-86°F) in their original container to protect from light and moisture. Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets. Do not use capsules that are discolored, damaged, or past their expiration date. Proper disposal of unused medication is important to prevent accidental ingestion. The medication should not be flushed down the toilet or poured into drains unless instructed to do so.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Avodart is a prescription medication that should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual response to treatment may vary, and patients should follow their physician’s instructions regarding use, monitoring, and follow-up. The complete prescribing information should be consulted before initiating therapy. Only a healthcare provider can determine if this medication is appropriate for a specific patient based on individual medical history and current condition.
Reviews
Clinical trials demonstrate that approximately 70% of patients experience significant improvement in BPH symptoms after 6-12 months of Avodart therapy. Urologists report consistent reduction in prostate volume (mean reduction of 25-30% after two years) and decreased risk of acute urinary retention. Patients note improved urinary flow and reduced nocturia, though some report dissatisfaction with sexual side effects. Long-term studies show maintained efficacy with continuous use over 4 years. The combination therapy with alpha-blockers receives particularly positive feedback for rapid and sustained symptom relief. Overall satisfaction rates range from 65-75% among compliant patients who complete at least 6 months of therapy.