Dutasteride is a medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors. It is used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition in which the prostate gland becomes enlarged and causes urinary problems such as difficulty in urination, frequent urination, and weak urine flow.
Dutasteride works by inhibiting the activity of the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme, which is responsible for the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a hormone that contributes to the growth of the prostate gland, and by reducing its levels, dutasteride can help to shrink the size of the gland and improve urinary symptoms.
Dutasteride is taken orally in the form of capsules, usually once a day. It may take several months of treatment before the full benefits are realized. Dutasteride may cause side effects in some people, including decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, breast tenderness or enlargement, and decreased volume of ejaculate. These side effects are usually mild and go away after stopping the medication, but in rare cases, more serious side effects may occur, such as allergic reactions or liver damage.
It is important to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, as well as any medical conditions you have, before starting treatment with dutasteride. Some medications and medical conditions can interact with this medication or increase the risk of side effects. Additionally, dutasteride may affect the results of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests used to screen for prostate cancer, so it is important to inform your healthcare provider if you are undergoing such testing while taking this medication.