Dutasteride
Dutasteride is a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor that works by blocking the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone responsible for prostate enlargement and male pattern hair loss. By lowering DHT levels, it helps shrink the prostate gland and improve urinary symptoms.
Dosage by Body Weight
The standard adult dosage is 0.5 mg taken orally once daily. Capsules must be swallowed whole and should not be chewed or opened, as the contents may cause irritation to the lips, mouth, or throat. It can be taken with or without food. Dutasteride is strictly contraindicated in women and children.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Contraindicated
- Frequency
- Not applicable
- Tracking Notes
- Dutasteride is not indicated for pediatric use. Safe and effective use in children has not been established.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Contraindicated
- Frequency
- Not applicable
- Tracking Notes
- Dutasteride is not indicated for pediatric use. Safe and effective use in children has not been established.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- Contraindicated
- Frequency
- Not applicable
- Tracking Notes
- Dutasteride is not indicated for pediatric use. Safe and effective use in children has not been established.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- Contraindicated
- Frequency
- Not applicable
- Tracking Notes
- Dutasteride is not indicated for pediatric use. Safe and effective use in children has not been established.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- Contraindicated
- Frequency
- Not applicable
- Tracking Notes
- Dutasteride is not indicated for pediatric use. Safe and effective use in children has not been established.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Contraindicated | Not applicable | Dutasteride is not indicated for pediatric use. Safe and effective use in children has not been established. |
| 5-7 kg | Contraindicated | Not applicable | Dutasteride is not indicated for pediatric use. Safe and effective use in children has not been established. |
| 8-10 kg | Contraindicated | Not applicable | Dutasteride is not indicated for pediatric use. Safe and effective use in children has not been established. |
| 11-15 kg | Contraindicated | Not applicable | Dutasteride is not indicated for pediatric use. Safe and effective use in children has not been established. |
| 16-20 kg | Contraindicated | Not applicable | Dutasteride is not indicated for pediatric use. Safe and effective use in children has not been established. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used to treat symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men with an enlarged prostate, to reduce the risk of acute urinary retention, and to reduce the risk of needing BPH-related surgery. It is also used off-label for androgenetic alopecia (male pattern hair loss).
Generic Name
DutasterideBranded Drug Names
Dutasteride is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.