Avodart (Dutasteride)

Do's

• Read the patient information leaflet before starting Avodart and with each refill, if available from your pharmacist. 
• Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your healthcare provider, typically once daily. 
• Swallow the medication whole. 
• Use this medication regularly at the same time each day to derive the maximum benefit from it. 
• Take Avodart at the same time each day to help remember. 
• Consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions. 
• Inform your healthcare provider if your symptoms do not improve or worsen. 

Don'ts

• Do not crush or chew the capsules. 
• Avoid handling this medication if you are a woman who is pregnant or may become pregnant, as it can be absorbed through the skin and may harm an unborn baby. 

Improvement in symptoms may take 3 to 6 months. 

Serious Side Effects:

• Chest pain or discomfort
• Dilated neck veins
• Extreme fatigue
• Irregular breathing
• Irregular heartbeat
• Swelling of the face, fingers, feet, or lower legs
• Trouble breathing
• Weight gain
• Incidence not known:
• Blistering, flaking, or peeling of the skin
• Cough
• Difficulty with swallowing
• Dizziness

Less serious side effects may include:

• Decreased libido (sex drive)
• Decreased amount of semen released during sex
• Impotence (trouble getting or keeping an erection)
• Breast tenderness or enlargement

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and individuals may experience other effects. If any concerning symptoms occur while taking Avodart, seek medical attention and consult a healthcare provider for guidance.

Avodart capsules should not be handled by women who are pregnant or may potentially become pregnant due to the potential for absorption of dutasteride and the subsequent risk to a developing male fetus.

If a pregnant or potentially pregnant woman comes in contact with leaking Avodart capsules, the contact area should be washed immediately with soap and water.

Avodart may affect sperm characteristics, although the effect on fertility is unknown.

Avodart reduces serum PSA levels by approximately 50% within 3 to 6 months of therapy. Patients undergoing PSA screening should be aware of potential increases in PSA levels.

Patients should inform their healthcare provider about all medical conditions, including allergies and liver problems, before starting treatment with Avodart.

Avodart should never be taken by women or children, and it can cause birth defects if a woman is exposed to it during pregnancy.

Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and information regarding the warnings and precautions associated with the use of Avodart.