Dutasteride
Dutasteride is a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor prescribed for benign prostatic hyperplasia, the enlargement of the prostate gland. It is also used in androgenetic alopecia, where the same hormonal pathway drives follicle shrinkage. Treatment runs long term, and the changes it produces build gradually rather than appearing at once.
Medicines containing Dutasteride
Jalyn
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
0.4/0.5mg
Jalyn combines dutasteride and tamsulosin in a capsule for benign prostatic hyperplasia. One ingredient shrinks the prostate and the other relaxes its muscle; You can choose from one strength and several pack sizes. Each option lists its price per capsule.
Key points
- Dutasteride blocks the enzyme that turns testosterone into dihydrotestosterone, the androgen behind prostate growth and androgen-related hair loss.
- Visible change is slow: onset is usually given as 3 to 6 months, and the effect depends on continued use.
- Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not handle the contents of the capsules, because touching them may harm a male fetus.
What dutasteride is used for
The main use is benign prostatic hyperplasia. By lowering androgen drive on the gland, dutasteride reduces prostate volume over time and eases the urinary symptoms that accompany enlargement.
It is also used in androgenetic alopecia, where dihydrotestosterone contributes to the miniaturisation of hair follicles. Reducing that hormone level helps slow hair loss related to androgenic effects.
How it works
Dutasteride inhibits 5-alpha reductase, the enzyme that turns testosterone into dihydrotestosterone. With less dihydrotestosterone available, the prostate gland shrinks over time and androgen-driven hair loss slows.
The response is not immediate. Onset is generally placed at 3 to 6 months, and treatment is long term, since the hormonal effect holds only while the medicine is taken.
Forms and brands
Avodart contains dutasteride 0.5mg on its own. Jalyn pairs dutasteride 0.5mg with tamsulosin 0.4mg, a combination directed at benign prostatic hyperplasia. Both are supplied as tablets.
Dutasteride is for adult men only. It is not for children or for women. Orders are shipped to Malaysia in discreet packaging.
Safety
Dutasteride must not be used by anyone with a significant hypersensitivity to dutasteride, its excipients or finasteride. It is contraindicated in pregnancy, in women who may become pregnant, in children, and in severe hepatic impairment.
Pregnant women should not handle leaking capsules, and absorption can follow contact with the contents. Blood donation should be avoided during treatment and for six months afterwards. Prostate-specific antigen levels need monitoring while on treatment.
Common reactions include impotence, reduced libido, and breast tenderness or enlargement. Ejaculation disorders and dizziness are also reported. Allergic reactions and depression are serious and need immediate medical attention. Dutasteride interacts with CYP3A4 inhibitors, so other medicines and supplements should be raised with a prescriber or pharmacist.
What the sources say
- Dutasteride may increase the risk of high-grade prostate cancer, a type that grows and spreads more quickly than other prostate cancers. (MedlinePlus)
- The FDA approved dutasteride in 2001 for symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia, to relieve symptoms and lower the risk of acute urinary retention and the potential need for surgery. (NCBI)
- No boxed warnings had been reported for dutasteride at the time the StatPearls article was written. (NCBI)
Further reading
FAQ
What is dutasteride used for?
Dutasteride is used for benign prostatic hyperplasia, the enlargement of the prostate gland, and for androgenetic alopecia. It helps slow hair loss related to androgenic effects.
How does dutasteride work?
Dutasteride inhibits 5-alpha reductase, the enzyme that turns testosterone into dihydrotestosterone. With less dihydrotestosterone available, the prostate gland shrinks over time and androgen-driven hair loss slows.
Which products here contain dutasteride?
You'll find dutasteride in Avodart and Jalyn, among others. The listing above lets you compare forms, strengths and packs.
How long does dutasteride take to work?
Visible change is slow, with onset usually given as 3 to 6 months. The effect depends on continued use, and treatment is long term.
What are the side effects of dutasteride?
Common reactions include impotence, reduced libido, and breast tenderness or enlargement. Ejaculation disorders and dizziness are also reported. Allergic reactions and depression are serious and need immediate medical attention. Speak to a doctor or pharmacist if you have concerns.
Who should not take dutasteride?
Dutasteride must not be used by anyone with a significant hypersensitivity to dutasteride, its excipients or finasteride. It is contraindicated in pregnancy, in women who may become pregnant, in children, and in severe hepatic impairment. It is for adult men only.
What other brand names does dutasteride go by?
Apart from what's listed here, you may see dutasteride sold as Dutas and Combodart. Brand names change from country to country, so the active ingredient is the safest thing to compare.
Do you send dutasteride to Malaysia?
Yes. Our pharmacy partners send orders from India to Malaysia in plain, discreet packaging. Express Tracked Courier takes up to 1 week; Standard Airmail can take up to 3 weeks.
How ordering works →Last updated