Dual 5α-reductase inhibitor (type 1 and type 2)
Dutasteride in Canada: prescription, brands, pricing
This page summarises the situation of Dutasteride in Canada under Health Canada: prescription status, available brands and generics, pharmacy dispensing, and online options in CAD. Dutasteride belongs to the Dual 5α-reductase inhibitor (type 1 and type 2) class.
- Regulator
- Health Canada
- Currency
- CAD
About Dutasteride
Dutasteride is approved for symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia, alone or in combination with tamsulosin (Combodart/Jalyn) for greater symptom relief. Canada classifies medications as Schedule I (prescription), II (pharmacist-only OTC), III (open OTC) or unscheduled, with provincial variation. Provincial drug plans cover prescription costs at varying rates.
Mechanism and action
Dutasteride irreversibly inhibits both isoenzymes of 5α-reductase, the enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
Brands and generics in Canada
In Canada, Dutasteride is typically dispensed as one internationally recognised brand along with their corresponding authorised generics. Canadian pharmacies (Shoppers Drug Mart, Rexall, London Drugs and many independents) are licensed provincially, and pharmacists in several provinces can prescribe for minor ailments. Brand-to-generic substitution is decided by the pharmacist under local Health Canada equivalence rules, and the price difference in CAD is usually substantial.
Online and tele-prescribing access
Online pharmacy is regulated provincially in Canada; cross-border imports are restricted. Tele-prescribing platforms have expanded prescription access since 2020. For Dutasteride specifically, the legal online options in Canada depend on its Rx-or-OTC classification under Health Canada.
Frequently asked questions
Is Dutasteride available in Canada? ▾
Yes — Dutasteride and its brands are available in Canada through pharmacies authorised by Health Canada, in various strengths depending on the commercial product. Authorised generics offer a lower-cost alternative with the same active substance.
Do I need a prescription for Dutasteride in Canada? ▾
Canada classifies medications as Schedule I (prescription), II (pharmacist-only OTC), III (open OTC) or unscheduled, with provincial variation. Provincial drug plans cover prescription costs at varying rates. The exact status of Dutasteride (Rx or OTC) is determined by Health Canada; most active ingredients in the Dual 5α-reductase inhibitor (type 1 and type 2) class require prescription, although there are exceptions by country and formulation.
How much does Dutasteride cost in Canada? ▾
The price in CAD depends on the manufacturer (brand vs authorised generic), the strength and the pack size. Generics are typically substantially cheaper than brands and serve as the economic reference for ongoing use.
Products with Dutasteride in Canada
Dutasteride in other countries
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.