Dutasteride is a prescription medication used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also known as an enlarged prostate. It is sold under the brand name Avodart and as a generic medication.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that commonly occurs as men age. It can cause weak urine stream, frequent urination, difficulty starting urination, nighttime urination, and a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying.

Dutasteride blocks two forms of the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase. This enzyme converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which contributes to prostate enlargement. Lowering DHT helps shrink the prostate over time.

It is approved to treat symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia, reduce the risk of urinary retention, and lower the need for prostate surgery in men with enlarged prostate.

Some improvement may begin within 1 to 3 months, but full benefits often take 6 months or longer because the medication works gradually by shrinking the prostate.

The standard dose is 0.5 mg taken once daily. It may be taken with or without food. Capsules should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed.

Dutasteride is commonly prescribed for long-term management of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Ongoing monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended to assess symptom control and potential side effects.

Yes. Dutasteride (Avodart) is only available with a prescription. A licensed healthcare provider needs to review your symptoms and decide if it’s the right treatment for you before prescribing it.

Yes. You can receive a Dutasteride (Avodart) prescription online after completing a virtual consultation with a licensed Mount Sinai Urology CME provider. They’ll evaluate your condition and determine if the medication is appropriate for you.

No. Dutasteride (Avodart) is not sold over the counter. You’ll need a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

Yes. Mount Sinai Urology CME specialists can issue a new prescription or refill for Dutasteride (Avodart) after an online consultation, if it’s appropriate for your care. If prescribed, your medication will be shipped directly to your home in discreet packaging.

No. Dutasteride manages and reduces symptoms but does not permanently cure benign prostatic hyperplasia. Continued treatment is typically required.

Yes. It is often prescribed together with an alpha-blocker such as tamsulosin. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements to avoid potential interactions.

Common side effects include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, reduced semen volume, and breast tenderness or enlargement.

Yes. Dutasteride can lower PSA levels by approximately 50 percent after 6 months of treatment. Doctors adjust interpretation of PSA results accordingly.

No. Dutasteride is not approved for women and may cause harm to a developing male fetus.

By lowering dihydrotestosterone levels, dutasteride gradually shrinks the prostate. A smaller prostate reduces pressure on the urethra, which improves urine flow and decreases urinary symptoms over time.

Men with moderate to severe BPH symptoms and confirmed prostate enlargement are often good candidates. It is particularly useful in men with significantly enlarged prostates.

Discuss current medications, liver health, prostate cancer screening history, sexual health concerns, and future plans for fathering children before beginning treatment.

Yes. Dutasteride has been shown to lower the risk of acute urinary retention and reduce the need for prostate surgery in men with enlarged prostates.

Combination therapy refers to using dutasteride together with an alpha-blocker such as tamsulosin. The alpha-blocker provides faster symptom relief, while dutasteride works long term to shrink the prostate.

If treatment is stopped, dihydrotestosterone levels gradually return to normal and the prostate may slowly enlarge again. Symptoms can return over time.

Yes. Some men experience decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, or changes in ejaculation. These effects may improve with time but can persist in some individuals.

Dutasteride may reduce the overall risk of low-grade prostate cancer, though some studies observed a small increase in detection of higher-grade cancers. Regular monitoring and discussion with a healthcare provider are important.

Healthcare providers typically monitor symptom improvement, PSA levels, and side effects. Follow-up appointments are scheduled periodically to assess response to therapy.

Although not officially approved for male pattern hair loss in many countries, dutasteride reduces DHT and has been studied for androgenetic alopecia. It may be prescribed off-label under medical supervision.

Dutasteride may reduce sperm count, semen volume, and sperm motility in some men. These changes are usually reversible after discontinuation, but men concerned about fertility should consult their healthcare provider.

Rare but serious side effects may include allergic reactions, breast changes such as lumps or nipple discharge, and persistent sexual dysfunction. Medical attention should be sought if concerning symptoms occur.

Dutasteride should not be used by individuals with known hypersensitivity to the drug, severe liver disease, or previous adverse reactions to 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors. It is not intended for use in women or children.