What Is Avodart?
Avodart is the brand name for dutasteride, a medication mainly prescribed to shrink an enlarged prostate caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia. Manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline, Avodart reduces the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone responsible for prostate growth.
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Benefits
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In decreasing prostate size, Avodart helps improve urinary flow and may prevent the need for prostate surgery.
Combination Medicine
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When Avodart does not work on its own, doctors sometimes prescribe the alpha blocker tamsulosin, or Flomax, along with Avodart for better efficacy.
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Hair Loss
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Although Avodart is not approved for treating male pattern baldness, doctors may prescribe it for this use.
Side Effects
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Side effects associated with Avodart include sexual problems, although these are often temporary. It also can cause breast enlargement, dizziness, malaise, muscle pain, plus ear, nose and throat infections.
Pregnancy Considerations
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Pregnant women or those who may become pregnant should not take Avodart for any reason, because it can cause birth defects. Since Avodart can be absorbed through the skin, these women should not even handle the medication.
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