Avodart (Dutasteride) Guide: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Price

• By Nina Maissouradze
• 20 Sep, 2025
• 11 Comments

Avodart is a prescription medication that many people hear about when they’re dealing with an enlarged prostate or hair‑loss concerns. If you landed here, you probably want a clear picture of what the drug does, how to take it safely, and whether it’s worth the cost. Below you’ll find a quick‑hit summary, step‑by‑step usage tips, a side‑by‑side comparison with alternatives, and answers to the most common questions.

TL;DR - Key Takeaways

• Avodart’s active ingredient is dutasteride, a 5‑alpha‑reductase inhibitor that shrinks the prostate and reduces DHT levels.
• Standard dose for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is 0.5mg once daily; hair‑loss protocols usually start at the same dose but may be adjusted.
• Typical side effects include decreased libido, erectile issues, and breast tenderness; serious reactions are rare but require medical attention.
• Compared with finasteride, Avodart blocks both typeI and II enzymes, offering stronger DHT suppression (≈90% vs 70%).
• UK price ranges from £15-£30 for a 30‑day supply, depending on pharmacy and whether a generic version is used.

What Is Avodart and How Does It Work?

Avodart is sold under the brand name for dutasteride, a synthetic compound that targets the hormone‑converting enzyme 5‑alpha‑reductase. This enzyme exists in two forms-typeI and typeII-and is responsible for turning testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is the main driver behind prostate growth and male‑pattern hair loss.

By inhibiting both enzyme types, dutasteride reduces circulating DHT by up to 90%. The result is a slower‑growing prostate, which eases urinary symptoms, and a lower DHT environment in the scalp, which can halt hair‑loss progression and even promote regrowth over time.

Avodart received approval from the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in 2002 for BPH treatment. Off‑label, many dermatologists prescribe it for androgenic alopecia, especially when finasteride alone isn’t enough.

Typical candidates for Avodart include men over 50 with moderate to severe BPH, as well as adults (usually under a dermatologist’s care) seeking a more aggressive approach to male‑pattern baldness.

How to Use Avodart: Dosage, Safety Tips, and Practical Checklist

Below is a practical, step‑by‑step plan that covers both prostate and hair‑loss regimens. Always follow your doctor’s exact instructions; this guide is for informational purposes only.

1. Get a prescription: In the UK, Avodart isn’t available over the counter. Use a legitimate online pharmacy with a registered UK pharmacist or visit your GP/urologist.
2. Pick the right dose: The standard dose is 0.5mg taken once a day with or without food. Do not split the tablet unless your pharmacist provides a scored version.
3. Set a reminder: Consistency matters. Use a phone alarm or a pill‑box to avoid missed doses.
4. Monitor for side effects: Within the first few weeks, note any changes in sexual function, breast tissue, or mood. If you experience severe symptoms-such as painful breast swelling or allergic rash-contact your doctor immediately.
5. Blood tests: Your physician may order baseline liver function and prostate‑specific antigen (PSA) tests before starting, then repeat annually.
6. Pregnancy warning: Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant must not handle crushed or broken tablets, as dutasteride can cause birth defects.
7. Stay patient: For BPH, noticeable symptom relief often appears after 2-3 months. Hair results may take 6-12 months, with gradual thinning reduction before any regrowth is seen.

Here’s a quick checklist you can print out:

• Prescription secured?
• Correct 0.5mg tablet on hand?
• Daily reminder set?
• Baseline PSA and liver tests done?
• Partner aware of pregnancy safety rules?
• Side‑effect log ready?

Avodart vs. Other 5‑Alpha‑Reductase Inhibitors: A Comparative Snapshot

If you’re weighing options, the main competitors are finasteride (Proscar®, Propecia®) and the newer combination therapy of dutasteride with tadalafil (for BPH). The table below breaks down the most relevant factors.

Key insights from the table:

• If you need the strongest DHT suppression for stubborn hair loss, Avodart generally outperforms finasteride.
• Finasteride is cheaper and has a longer track record for hair‑loss treatment, making it a first‑line option for many.
• The combo with tadalafil can improve urinary flow faster but adds extra cost and possible cardiovascular considerations.

Mini‑FAQ: What People Most Often Ask About Avodart

• Can women take Avodart? No. The drug is toxic to a developing male fetus, so women who are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are handling broken tablets must avoid exposure.
• How long before I see results for BPH? Most men notice steadier urine flow after 2-3 months, though maximal prostate shrinkage can take up to a year.
• Will Avodart stop hair loss permanently? It can halt further loss while you stay on the medication, but stopping usually leads to the return of DHT‑driven shedding within months.
• Is it safe to combine Avodart with other prostate meds? Doctors sometimes pair dutasteride with an alpha‑blocker (e.g., tamsulosin) for quicker symptom relief. Always get professional guidance first.
• Do I need regular blood tests? Baseline PSA and liver function tests are recommended; yearly PSA checks help monitor prostate health, especially if you have a history of cancer.

Next Steps: How to Get Started and What to Watch For

If you’ve decided Avodart might be right for you, follow this short roadmap:

1. Schedule a consultation: Talk to your GP, urologist, or dermatologist. Bring a list of current meds to rule out interactions.
2. Secure a prescription: If you’re comfortable with an online pharmacy, choose a reputable UK‑based service that requires a pharmacist review.
3. Set up a pharmacy delivery: Many services offer free next‑day delivery; verify that they supply the 0.5mg tablet.
4. Plan follow‑up labs: Arrange PSA and liver panels before starting and schedule yearly repeats.
5. Track side effects: Use a simple spreadsheet or health‑app to note any changes. Share the log with your doctor at the next appointment.

Remember, the best outcomes come from consistent use and open communication with your healthcare team. If you experience any concerning symptoms, seek medical advice promptly.

With the right guidance, Avodart can be a powerful tool for managing an enlarged prostate and tackling stubborn hair loss. Use the information here as a solid foundation, and let your clinician tailor the plan to your unique health profile.