What is the most important information I should know about dutasteride?
Before taking dutasteride, tell your doctor if you have ever had an
allergic reaction to
this medication, or to a similar medicine called
finasteride (
Propecia,
Proscar).
Do not chew, crush, or open a dutasteride capsule. Swallow the capsule whole.
Dutasteride can irritate your lips, mouth, or throat if the capsule has been broken or opened
before you swallow it.
Dutasteride should
never be taken by a woman or a child.
Dutasteride can be absorbed through the skin, and women or children should not be permitted to
handle dutasteride capsules.
Although dutasteride is not for use by women, this medication can cause birth defects
if a woman is exposed to it during pregnancy. Dutasteride capsules should not be
handled by a woman who is pregnant or who may become pregnant.
If a woman accidentally comes into contact with this medication from a leaking
capsule, wash the area with soap and water right away.
Do not donate blood while taking dutasteride and for at least 6 months after your
treatment ends. Dutasteride can be carried in the blood and could cause birth defects if a
pregnant women receives a transfusion with blood that contains dutasteride.
What is dutasteride?
Dutasteride prevents the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the
body. DHT is involved in the development of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Dutasteride is used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men with an enlarged
prostate. This medicine helps improve urinary flow and may also reduce your need for prostate
surgery later on.
Dutasteride may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking dutasteride?
Before taking dutasteride, tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to
this medication, or to a similar medicine called finasteride (Propecia, Proscar).
Dutasteride should never be taken by a woman or a child.
Dutasteride can be absorbed through the skin, and women or children should not be permitted to
handle dutasteride capsules.
Although dutasteride is not for use by women, this medication can cause birth defects
if a woman is exposed to it during pregnancy. Dutasteride capsules should not be
handled by a woman who is pregnant or who may become pregnant.
If a woman accidentally comes into contact with this medication from a leaking
capsule, wash the area with soap and water right away.
How should I take dutasteride?
Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in
larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on
your prescription label.
Take dutasteride with a full glass of water.
Dutasteride can be taken with or without food.
Do not chew, crush, or open a dutasteride capsule. Swallow the capsule whole.
Dutasteride can irritate your lips, mouth, or throat if the capsule has been broken or opened
before you swallow it.
It may take up to 6 months of using this medicine before your symptoms improve.
For best results, keep using the medication as directed. Do not stop taking dutasteride without
talking to your doctor.
To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your prostate will need to be
checked on a regular basis. Your PSA (prostate-specific antigen) may also be tested to help
detect prostate cancer. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.
Store dutasteride at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Dutasteride
capsules may become soft and leaky, or they may stick together if they get too hot. Do not use
any capsule that is cracked or leaking. Call your pharmacist for instructions on how to safely
dispose of a leaking dutasteride capsule.
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