Main Use | Active Ingredient | Marketed Name |
Benign prostatic hyperplasia | Dutas | Dutasteride |
Uses
Dutas (Dutasteride) is administered as a treatment for the urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia. Many men affected by male pattern hair loss have also taken it to regrow hair. The primary active ingredient contained in these capsules belongs to the 5-alpha reductase inhibitor group of medicines. Its mode of action is believed to involve selectively inhibiting the intracellular enzyme known as 5AR. This in turn interrupts the process in which the male hormone testosterone is converted into the potent androgen DHT (dihydrotestosterone).
DHT is said to be what causes the prostate gland to become enlarged, leading to urination difficulties, and by decreasing DHT levels, this medication can help the prostate gland to shrink. Symptoms such as difficulty passing urine or frequent urination can therefore be treated. DHT is also believed to contribute to hair loss in patients with male pattern baldness. Medical studies have take place which found that it could cause hair growth in adult men with MPB and for this reason, a great deal of men have used it as a baldness treatment.
Dosage and Administration
Dutas (Dutasteride) capsules come as a 0.5mg strength variety. Adult patients affected by an enlarged prostate caused by BPH may be directed by their doctor to administer one capsule each day. Swallow the capsule whole with water, and try to avoid opening it or breaking it prior to administration. Your doctor will request regular medical checkups during treatment, including blood tests. Attend all scheduled appointments. The dosage for baldness will be determined by your doctor if you are being treated for this condition.
Side effects
Use of Dutas (Dutasteride) may lead to side effects, which could include:
Make sure that you report all side effects that occur to your doctor. Certain side effects are serious and will require immediate medical attention. These can include lumps on the breasts, a discharge from the nipples, skin problems and other serious reactions that have not been mentioned here.
Precautions
This drug is only indicated for male patients and must not be used by females. Also, pregnant women must not handle or touch the capsules to prevent the medicine from being transdermally absorbed.
This medication may remain in the blood stream for a certain period after treatment ceases. You may need to avoid donating blood for at least 6 months after ceasing treatment.
Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.
Always use Dutas (Dutasteride) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.
This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor: