Dutasteride: uses, side effects & brands

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 5 November 2026

Dutasteride shrinks the prostate and is also used for hair loss. It belongs to the Urology & men’s health group. These treat prostate enlargement, urinary symptoms and erectile dysfunction.

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Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	Urology & men’s health
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

Enlarged prostate (BPH), to slowly shrink it
Reducing the risk of urinary retention and prostate surgery
Often combined with tamsulosin for faster relief

Common brand names

India: Dutas, Duprost, Veltride
Worldwide: Avodart

Common side effects

Lower sex drive
Erection or ejaculation problems
Breast tenderness or enlargement
Reduced semen

Before taking it — precautions

Women and children must not handle leaking capsules; it can harm a male baby in pregnancy
It lowers the PSA blood test; tell your doctor before prostate testing
Do not donate blood during treatment and for some months after

When to see a doctor urgently

Breast lumps, pain or nipple discharge
Swelling of face, lips or throat or severe rash (urgent)
Sudden inability to pass urine (urgent)

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of dutasteride depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.

Frequently asked questions

How is dutasteride different from tamsulosin?

Tamsulosin relaxes the prostate muscle and works within days; dutasteride slowly shrinks the prostate over months. They are often used together.

Can dutasteride be used for hair loss?

It is used for hair loss in some countries, but this is not its approved use everywhere. Discuss it with your doctor.

Why can't I donate blood?

It stays in the body for months, and donated blood could expose a pregnant woman to it.

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Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.