Dutasteride (Avodart) Uses

Dutasteride is used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or enlarged prostate. Symptoms of BPH typically include urinary frequency, urgency, hesitancy, dribbling, weak urinary stream, pain with urination, and incomplete emptying of the bladder.

Taking dutasteride lowers the risk of acute urinary retention (a sudden inability to urinate) and the chances of needing prostate surgery. 

There may be other uses of dutasteride—your doctor or pharmacist can give you further drug information.

Dutasteride (Avodart) Mechanism of Action

Dutasteride blocks an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase which is needed to convert testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is an androgen hormone that is responsible for the enlargement of the prostate gland. By blocking the formation of DHT, dutasteride can lead to a decrease in the size of the prostate and relieve symptoms of an enlarged prostate.

Dutasteride (Avodart) Doses

Dutasteride (Avodart) capsules are available in 0.5 mg strength. The usual dose is 0.5 mg once a day.