Avodart (Dutasteride 0.5mg)
Avodart is the brand of dutasteride 0.5mg capsules, a dual 5α-reductase inhibitor approved for symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia. It is also used off-label for androgenetic alopecia, particularly in men where finasteride has been ineffective.
- Active ingredients
- Dutasteride
- Manufacturer
- GlaxoSmithKline
- Dosage forms
- capsule
- Available dosages
- 0.5mg
- Category
- Male and Female Pattern Hair Loss
What is it?
Avodart is the originator brand of dutasteride 0.5mg capsules, marketed by GlaxoSmithKline. Approved in 2001 for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), it is one of two clinically used 5α-reductase inhibitors (the other being finasteride). Authorised generic dutasteride is widely available, and the molecule is also marketed in combination with tamsulosin as Combodart (Europe) or Jalyn (US) for greater BPH symptom relief.
Active ingredients
Each Avodart capsule contains 0.5mg of dutasteride, a dual 5α-reductase inhibitor that blocks both type 1 and type 2 isoenzymes. This dual blockade reduces serum dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by approximately 90%, compared with about 70% for finasteride which inhibits only the type 2 isoenzyme. The 0.5mg dose is the only marketed strength and represents the daily intake for both BPH and off-label hair loss use.
Forms and dosages
Avodart is supplied as oblong, opaque, dull yellow soft gelatin capsules containing 0.5mg of dutasteride. The recommended dose is one capsule daily, taken at the same time each day with or without food. Capsules should be swallowed whole; the soft gel should not be chewed or opened, as the contents can irritate the mouth and throat and women who could become pregnant must not handle leaking capsules due to teratogenic risk to a male fetus.
Indications
Avodart is approved for the treatment of moderate to severe symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia, alone or in combination with the alpha-blocker tamsulosin. It is not formally approved in most regions for male pattern hair loss but is widely used off-label, particularly when finasteride at 1mg has been insufficient. According to current urology guidelines, dutasteride may also delay the need for prostate surgery in selected BPH patients.
How it works
Avodart inhibits both isoforms of 5α-reductase, the enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). The reduced DHT shrinks prostate volume over months, improving urinary flow and reducing nocturia and urgency. In the scalp, the same mechanism slows or reverses androgen-driven hair miniaturisation in androgenetic alopecia. BPH symptom improvement typically appears over 3–6 months; visible hair regrowth may take 6–12 months.
Frequently asked questions
How is Avodart different from Propecia? ▾
Both are 5α-reductase inhibitors, but Avodart contains dutasteride (dual type 1 and type 2 inhibitor) while Propecia contains finasteride (type 2 only). Avodart reduces DHT more completely (~90% vs ~70%) and has a much longer half-life (~5 weeks vs ~6 hours). For hair loss, dutasteride may be slightly more effective but with longer-persisting side effects.
Can women take Avodart? ▾
Avodart is contraindicated in women, particularly those who could become pregnant, because it can cross the placenta and cause feminisation of a male fetus. Women should not handle leaking or broken capsules. According to the prescribing information, Avodart is exclusively for adult male use.
How long until Avodart works for hair loss? ▾
For off-label hair loss use, slowing of further loss usually appears within 3–6 months and visible regrowth within 6–12 months. The long half-life of dutasteride (~5 weeks) means effects build gradually and persist for months after stopping. According to dermatology practice, hair benefit reverses if the medication is discontinued.
What are the sexual side effects of Avodart? ▾
Common sexual side effects include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction and ejaculatory disorders. Most resolve on stopping the medication, but some users report persistent symptoms (post-finasteride/dutasteride syndrome). According to the prescribing information, these effects should be discussed with the prescriber before starting.
Will Avodart affect my PSA test? ▾
Yes — Avodart lowers serum PSA by approximately 50% over six months. This is a known pharmacological effect, not a sign of reduced cancer risk. According to current urology guidelines, the PSA value during dutasteride therapy should be doubled mentally to compare with off-treatment baselines for prostate cancer screening.
Related medications
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.