What is Dutasteride used for?

Dutasteride is evaluated for the following indications with varying evidence strength: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (evidence tier A), Androgenetic alopecia (evidence tier B), Anti-aging and longevity (evidence tier F). See the full indication matrix with dosing and citations above on this page.

What are the side effects of Dutasteride?

Common side effects of Dutasteride (≥ 1 in 100): Decreased libido (4-6%), Erectile dysfunction (5-9%), Decreased ejaculate volume, Gynaecomastia (1-3%), Rash. See the Safety section for uncommon and serious reactions.

Is Dutasteride safe during pregnancy?

FDA category X. Category X. Contraindicated in pregnant women, including handling of crushed or damaged capsules, due to risk of male fetal hypospadias.

Is Dutasteride compatible with breastfeeding?

The drug is not intended for women.

Who should not take Dutasteride?

Dutasteride is contraindicated in: Pregnancy (handling of crushed capsules is contraindicated); Age under 18; Hypersensitivity; Severe hepatic impairment; Women (category X). Full list in the Safety section.

Dutasteride

AEMPS

Testosterone 5α-reductase types 1 and 2 inhibitors

ATC code: G04CB02 (Dutasteride)

Brand names

Avodart

Mechanism of action

Dutasteride is a dual inhibitor of 5α-reductase types 1 and 2. Unlike finasteride (type 2 only), dutasteride inhibits both isoforms, producing approximately 90-95% serum DHT reduction versus 65-70% with finasteride. Half-life is about 5 weeks – substantially longer than finasteride (5-8 hours). After discontinuation, DHT returns to baseline over 4-6 months.

Indications

Benign prostatic hyperplasia

First line

Dutasteride 0.5 mg/day is first-line therapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia. The EPICS study (Andriole 2010, n=1630, head-to-head with finasteride) showed equivalence on symptoms and prostate volume. The CombAT trial (Roehrborn 2010, n=4844, 4 years) confirmed the superiority of combination over monotherapy on progression risk. AUA 2021, EAU 2023, and NG97 guidelines list dutasteride as first-line for BPH with prostate volume >40 mL, equivalent to finasteride.

Dutasteride

Mechanism of action

Indications

Benign prostatic hyperplasia

Androgenetic alopecia

Marketing claims without evidence base

Anti-aging and longevity

Practical notes

Russian practice note

Check interaction with another drug

Official sources

Safety

Contraindications

Serious adverse effects

Common adverse effects

PregnancyFDA X

Breastfeeding

Frequently asked