What is Avodart
Each Avodart(Dutasteride) capsule contains 0.5 mg of the active ingredient, dutasteride. Avodart(Dutasteride) belongs to a group of medicines called 5-alpha reductase inhibitors which are used to treat men who have a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH); it is also used to treat male-pattern baldness. BPH is a condition in which the prostate gland, which is near the bladder, becomes large enough to squeeze the urine tube making it more difficult for you to pass urine.
How to use Medicine
How does Dutasteride (Generic Avodart) work?
Benign prostatic hyperplasia is caused by dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which itself is a derivative of testosterone. Testosterone gets converted into DHT due to the effect of enzymes called 5-alpha reductase. Dutasteride’s work is to block these enzymes, which assist in the treatment of the situation.
Following multiple clinical trials, FDA gave GSK approval to sell Dutasteride with the brand name Avodart. This medication however, has also been in the news and talked about in forums due to its rumoured potential as treatment of male pattern baldness. Clinical trials for the same are still underway and GSK has not yet filed any application with FDA for its approval on this side.
Side effects of Dutasteride (Generic Avodart)
There are generic alternatives of Avodart available that also contain the active ingredient Dutasteride. All of these medications share common Avodart side effects which include impotence, decreased libido, breast disBuys, and premature ejaculation. While the conditions are not dangerous, the symptoms might become severe in case of an overdose. Hence it is very important to follow the dosage guidelines prescribed by your doctor, and take the dose at a fixed time everyday.
Avodart is meant to be used only by adult men; children should stay away from it. Women should not even handle this drug as it can be dangerous for them. If they handle broken capsules during pregnancy, absorption of the drug through their skin could cause major defects in the unborn child. It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking Avodart as alcohol can interact and interfere with the working of this drug.
Guidelines before taking
Before you take Avodart, confirm that you do not have liver disease as this might require a change in medication. Prepare yourself mentally for extended treatment as Avodart treatment usually requires at least six months to show best effects. Talk to you doctor if you have any known allergy to any of the ingredients of Avodart.
Difference between Brand Avodart and Generic Dutasteride
Brand Avodart is the first medication to be formulated with Dutasteride as its active ingredient; it was developed by GSK. Generic Dutasteride drugs carry the same active ingredient, but are manufactured by other pharmaceutical companies. Since they cannot have the same packaging, generic Dutasteride versions generally come in different sizes, shapes and packaging than brand Avodart. However, all drugs have the same effects and application.
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