Dutasteride

BPH & Drugs for Urinary Retention · 5 Alpha-reductase inhibitor

Indications

Treatment & control of symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men with an enlarged prostate to improve symptoms, reduce the risk of acute urinary retention & the need for BPH-related surgery.

Dosage

Adults: Males (including elderly): 0.5 mg once daily. Swallow whole, do not chew/crush. Children: Not recommended.

Adverse Effects

Impotence, decreased libido, ejaculation disorders, gynaecomastia, breast tenderness.

Risk Factor (Pregnancy/Lactation)

Pregnancy: Contraindicated in pregnancy. Lactation: Contraindicated or not recommended. Contraindications: Severe hepatic impairment. Women, children, adolescents. Soya or peanut allergy. Precautions: Mild to moderate hepatic impairment. Avoid donating blood until minimum 6 months after last dose. Evaluate for prostate cancer before and during therapy. Possible risk of male breast cancer; advise patients to report breast tissue changes. Double PSA values to compare with normal ranges in untreated men as it reduces PSA by 50%; establish new baseline PSA after 6 months then monitor regularly.

Interactions

CYP3A4 or P-gp inhibitors (e.g., verapamil, diltiazem, ritonavir, indinavir, nefazodone, ketoconazole, itraconazole).

Advice to Patient

Take with or without meals. Do not open or chew capsules, swallow whole. Inform prescriber if you have liver disease. Have periodic follow-up appointments. To avoid transmission to a pregnant woman during a blood transfusion, postpone blood donations for 6 months after last dose of treatment.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Absorbed rapidly from the GI tract. Metabolism: Hepatic. Bioavailability: 60%. Half-life elimination: 3-5 wks. Time to peak, serum: 1-3 hrs. Excretion: Faeces (mainly).

Compiled by Healify Pharmacy from published drug references. How we compile it →

Always consult a pharmacist or doctor.