Brand name:
Avodart
Pronounced: AVE-oh-dart
Generic name:
Dutasteride
Why is Avodart prescribed?
Avodart is used to treat prostate enlargement, a condition that
is medically known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH.
The prostate is a chestnut-shaped gland that is part of the male
reproductive system. It produces a liquid that forms part of the
semen. This gland completely encloses the upper part of the urethra,
the tube through which urine flows out of the bladder. Many men over
age 50 suffer from a benign (noncancerous) enlargement of the
prostate. The enlarged gland squeezes the urethra, obstructing the
normal flow of urine. Resulting problems may include difficulty in
starting urination, weak flow of urine, and the need to urinate
urgently or more frequently. Sometimes surgical removal of the
prostate is necessary.
By shrinking the enlarged prostate, Avodart may alleviate the
various urinary symptoms, making surgery unnecessary. You will need
to see your doctor for periodic examinations to assess your response
to treatment. It may take several months before you notice an
improvement in symptoms.
Most important fact about Avodart
Avodart can be absorbed through the skin. Because the drug could
affect a developing baby, pregnant women, women who may become
pregnant, and breastfeeding women should strictly avoid skin contact
with the drug.
How should you take Avodart?
Take 1 capsule once a day. The capsule should be swallowed whole
and can be taken with or without meals.
--If you miss a dose...
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.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature.
Avodart side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in
intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor
can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Avodart.
- Side effects may include:
Breast tenderness,
decreased sex drive,
ejaculation problems,
enlarged breasts in males,
impotence
Why should Avodart not be prescribed?
You should not take Avodart if you have ever had an allergic
reaction to it or to similar drugs such as finasteride (Proscar).
Women and children should not use Avodart.
Special warnings about Avodart
If a pregnant or breastfeeding woman is exposed to Avodart, the
drug may harm the developing baby (see "Special information if you
are pregnant or breastfeeding").
You should not donate blood while taking Avodart or for 6 months
after stopping treatment to avoid exposing pregnant or breastfeeding
women to blood that contains the drug.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Avodart
If Avodart is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of
either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Check with your
doctor before combining Avodart with other medication.
Use Avodart cautiously if you're taking HIV drugs such as
ritonavir (Norvir), since there is a theoretical chance of an
interaction.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Because Avodart can be absorbed through the skin, pregnant women,
women who may become pregnant, and breastfeeding women should
strictly avoid skin contact with the drug. If Avodart is
accidentally absorbed by a pregnant woman who is carrying a male
fetus, the drug could cause abnormal development of the baby's
genital organs. Because it's not known if Avodart appears in breast
milk, breastfeeding women must also avoid handling the drug.
Recommended dosage for Avodart
ADULT MEN
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If
you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
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