Dual 5α-reductase inhibitor (type 1 and type 2)
Dutasteride drug interactions: a practical overview
Drug interactions are the single biggest cause of preventable medication problems. Dutasteride (Dutasteride) interacts to varying degrees with several classes of medication and with a smaller list of foods. This page summarises the practically important ones at 0.5mg, framed for a real-world prescription review rather than an exhaustive PDF list.
High-priority interactions for Dutasteride
For Dutasteride, the most clinically relevant interactions are typically with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors and inducers, with cardiovascular medications (notably nitrates for several Dual 5α-reductase inhibitor (type 1 and type 2) agents), with central nervous system depressants, and with medications affecting blood pressure or heart rate. Dutasteride irreversibly inhibits both isoenzymes of 5α-reductase, the enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
Working with the pharmacist
A pharmacist review of all current medications is the practical safeguard against unintended interactions with Dutasteride. According to the prescribing information for Dutasteride, the full medication list — prescription, OTC, supplements and recreational substances — should be reviewed before starting and at every dose change at 0.5mg.
Frequently asked questions
What's the most important Dutasteride interaction to know? ▾
For most Dual 5α-reductase inhibitor (type 1 and type 2) medications, the highest-priority interaction is with nitrate medications used for chest pain — this combination is often a hard contraindication. After that, strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (some antifungals, macrolides) are the next concern at routine 0.5mg doses.
Do I need to tell the pharmacist about supplements? ▾
Yes. Supplements and herbal products can interact with Dutasteride in ways that prescription drug-drug interaction databases miss. The pharmacist needs the complete picture — including supplements like St John's Wort, grapefruit-containing products and high-dose vitamins — to flag risks at 0.5mg.
Products containing Dutasteride
More on Dutasteride
- With alcoholDutasteride and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Dutasteride be taken with food?
- Side effectsDutasteride side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideDutasteride dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Dutasteride start working?
- DurationHow long does Dutasteride last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.