Dutagen (Dutasteride) 0.5 Mg

What is this drug?

Dutagen is also available in market as dutamax or dutas and is prescribed to treat benign prostate hyperplasia or an enlarged prostate. By reducing the size of the prostate it relieves urinary symptoms like a weak stream, difficulty in urination, frequent urge etc. It may help in avoiding surgery for BPH. It is not recommended for prostatic cancer.

Classification and Mode of Action

Dutagen contains Dutasteride as the active ingredient which is a 5 alpha-reductase enzyme inhibitor. It blocks the enzyme α-reductase that is responsible for the conversion of the hormone testosterone to DHT (dihydrotestosterone). DHT is a hormone involved in the enlargement of the prostate. When its levels are reduced the enlarged prostate shrinks in size.

Looking after your drug

Store it at room temperature away from moisture and direct heat.

How to take the medication?

Take it by mouth as advised by your doctor.

Dosage

The usual recommended dose is 0.5 mg once in a day.

Overdose

Seek medical aid or talk to your doctor.

Missed Dose

Take it as soon as you remember. If it already time for the next dose then skip it. Do not double dose.

Warnings and Precautions

Use with caution in renal and hepatic diseases. Leaking capsule may allow absorption from the skin. Women and children should avoid handling the capsules.

Side Effects

·        Allergic reaction – itchy dermal rash

·        Decreased sex drive

·        Impotence

·        Reduced semen production

·        Breast enlargement in males

When should the drug not be used?

It is contraindicated in women, children, severe hepatic failure, hypersensitivity to the medicine, and prostate cancer.

How long should you take the drug?

As long as your doctor recommends.