Avodart
Generic Name:
Dutasteride
Brand Names:
Avodart
Avodart Description:
Avodart is prescribed to men to treat urinary symptoms of an enlarged prostate, a condition also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BHP). The medication also works to reduce the risk of acute urinary retention and reduce the need for surgery related to BHP.
Avodart is often prescribed with the alpha-blocker tamsulosin (Flomax), to treat BHP symptoms. The medication blocks an enzyme in the body that changes testosterone into another hormone known as dihydrotestosterone, causing the prostate to become enlarged. By targeting this enzyme, Avodart decreases the size of the prostate.
Avodart Side Effects:
Avodart treatment may cause certain patients to experience side effects. The following side effects have been attributed to Avodart usage:
- Impotence
- Ejaculation disorders
- Breast disorders
- Decreased Libido
For more information, see our Avodart side effects page.
Avodart Uses:
Avodart is prescribed in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BHP), a condition characterized by an enlarged prostate. The condition typically causes uncomfortable urinary symptoms, as the enlarged prostate often blocks the flow of urine, causing urinary, bladder or kidney problems in patients.
Avodart Interactions:
Patients should discuss the use of any medications, prescriptions, vitamins or supplements with their doctor prior to beginning treatment with Avodart.
Certain medications may interact with Avodart. Use of the following medicines may cause side effects. Speak with your doctor about use of the following drugs in combination with Avodart:
- Cimetidine
- Ritonavir
- Verapamil
- Ciprofloxacin
- Diltiazem
- Ketoconazole
Avodart Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
Patients should take Avodart exactly as prescribed by a doctor.
Take Avodart by swallowing the capsule whole. Patients make take the medication with or without food.
Those taking Avodart along typically take 0.5 mg of the medication one time daily. When used in combination with tamsulosin (Flomax), patients will typically take 0.5mg of Avodart one time daily and 0.4mg of tamsulosin once daily.
Missing a Dose of Avodart
If you miss a dose of Avodart, take the missed capsule as soon as your remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose to resume your typical dosing schedule. Do not take double doses of Avodart.
Avodart Overdose
If an Avodart overdose occurs, seek medical attention immediately.
Avodart FDA Approval:
November 20, 2001
Avodart Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
No recalls or Black Box warnings exist for Avodart.
Other Warnings
Women who are pregnant or of childbearing potential should not take or handle Avodart, as the medication can cause birth defects in male babies. Nursing mothers should not use Avodart.
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