Pros
Potential for hair growth
Taken once daily
Reduces urinary symptoms
Reduces the size of enlarged prostate
Avodart (dutasteride) prescription available online
If you are suffering from an enlarged prostate, Avodart (dutasteride) can help. Get a new prescription or refill of Avodart from a board-certified doctor online.*
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Avodart eases BPH symptoms
Follow prescribed dosage for effectiveness
May treat hair loss off-label
*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how you can save up to 80% with our prescription discount card.
About Avodart (dutasteride)
Avodart is considered a 5-alpha-reductase Inhibitor, which functions by preventing the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. This medication is used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or enlarged prostate in males.
Avodart is available only by prescription. It is available in a generic formulation as dutasteride, as well as under different brand names.
Avodart may be prescribed in capsule forms. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage that you are prescribed.
If you are prescribed Avodart, be sure to complete the full course of the 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop.
If you don’t complete your prescription, the medication may not fully treat the symptoms of your enlarged prostate.
Avodart uses
There are many FDA-approved uses for Avodart, but it may also be used off-label to treat other conditions. Your online physician may prescribe it for any of the following common reasons. It’s also possible that your health care provider may prescribe it for other reasons not listed here. If you have questions about why a medication is prescribed, ask your online doctor or pharmacist.
Enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia, BPH)
Avodart aids in the improvement of benign prostatic hyperplasia symptoms, including urge to urinate frequently and acute urinary retention.
Below the bladder lies the prostate gland. Certain muscles in the prostate gland may tighten due to an enlarged prostate and obstruct the duct that collects urine from the bladder. This may result in issues related to urination.Hair loss
Although it is not FDA-approved to treat hair loss, Avodart may sometimes be prescribed off-label by your doctor to treat hair loss.
What are the pros and cons?
Avodart
Cons
May cause ED or decreased sex drive
Typically taken long-term to see effects
May cause gynecomastia in some men
Interacts with other medications, including alpha-blockers
Avodart side effects
The side effects associated with taking Avodart are typically moderate. Avodart side effects vary from patient to patient. Most Avodart side effects are associated with sexual problems. Common side effects of Avodart may include:
Reduced sperm quantity
Testicular tenderness
Breast tenderness
Erectile dysfunction
Adverse effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:Serious skin rashes or allergic reactions
Facial bloating
Eye allergies
Breathing discomfort
Fever
You should call your healthcare professional if you notice any of these side effects, or if you develop any other new or serious symptoms.
The use of Avodart in children under age 18 is not advised.
How to take Avodart
Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your Avodart prescription.
Be sure to read your prescription label on drug information and follow the instructions. Read your pharmacist's patient information leaflet if available. Ask your health care professional or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Dosage guidelines may include:
Dose recommendation for male adults: Typical dosage for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is one 0.5 mg capsule per day. The strength of your dosage will be determined by your doctor depending on your age, how severe your condition is, and other medications and conditions you may have.
Avodart is not recommended for pregnant women. This drug may interfere with the normal development of male fetal reproductive organs.
What to avoid while taking Avodart
Avodart has 108 possible drug interactions. Don’t change what you are taking without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or supplements, as well as over-the-counter drugs.
It is important to talk to your healthcare professional when taking Avodart with other prescription drugs, as they may cause increased risk of certain side effects associated with Avodart:
Ritonavir
Clarithromycin
Verapamil
Diltiazem
Ketoconazole
Ceritinib
Ciprofloxacin
Ask your doctor or pharmacist if it is acceptable to consume alcohol while taking Avodart. There might be problems if you combine Avodart with alcohol or smoking. Alcohol may also reduce the medication’s ability to do its job.
You should not donate blood while you are on Avodart.
Medication alternatives to Avodart
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment altogether, they may suggest another 5 alpha reductase inhibitor or a medication in other drug class. Here are some common prescriptions your healthcare provider can recommend based on your health issue:
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Hair Loss
Avodart prescription FAQs
How much does Avodart cost?
Depending on dosage, number of capsules, and insurance coverage, Avodart pricing can start from $7-8.
How can I refill my Avodart prescription?
Avodart is only available by prescription, so you will need to see a board-certified doctor to get a refill on your prescription. To get started, book a virtual appointment with one of our top rated board-certified doctors. After a qualifying evaluation, including a review of your medical history, your prescription will be sent to your local pharmacy for pickup.
Who should not take Avodart?
Avodart is not recommended for those who have:
Liver illness
High-grade prostate cancer
Females who are pregnant or nursing
What happens if I miss a dose of Avodart?
Try to take your medication regularly. If you miss a dose of Avodart, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Avoid double doses.
What are two serious precautions for Avodart?
Taking dutasteride may increase your risk of developing high-grade prostate cancer. Talk to your doctor about the risks of taking dutasteride.
Dutasteride should not be taken by women or during pregnancy.How long should Avodart be taken?
Take Avodart as long as your healthcare professional prescribes it.
What happens if I take too much dutasteride?
If you take too much dutasteride call your healthcare provider or local poison control center, or go to the ER right away.
3 simple steps to request your Avodart prescription today
Step 1
Book a Avodart prescription request appointment.
Book a same day appointment from anywhere.
Step 2
Talk to your medical provider regarding your Avodart prescription.
Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
Step 3
Pick up your Avodart prescription.
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
Avodart prescription resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
GSK. "Avodart Prescribing Information." GlaxoSmithKline, Accessed October 10, 2023, https://ca.gsk.com/media/6149/avodart.pdf.
"Dutasteride (Oral Route) - Description and Brand Names." Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, Accessed October 10, 2023, https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/dutasteride-oral-route/description/drg-20063575.
"Dutasteride / Avodart Drug Interactions." Drugs.com, Accessed October 10, 2023, https://www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/dutasteride,avodart.html.
PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.