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Dutasteride Capsules


Patient Information Leaflet: Dutasteride 0.5mg Capsules

Read all of this leaflet carefully before you start taking this medicine.

  • Keep this leaflet. You may need to read it again.

  • If you have any further questions, ask your doctor, pharmacist, or trichology prescriber.

  • This medicine has been prescribed for you. Do not pass it on to others as it may harm them, even if their symptoms are the same as yours.


MHRA LICENSED (NO) | FDA APPROVED (NO) | OFF LABEL USE (YES) | DEMONSTRATED (YES)

AVERAGE COST PER DAY USE

What is Dutasteride 0.5mg and What is it Used For?

Dutasteride 0.5mg capsules are used to treat male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia). It is a prescription-only medicine that can slow hair loss and promote regrowth in men.

Male pattern hair loss is caused by high levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that shrinks hair follicles and leads to thinning hair and baldness. Dutasteride helps reduce DHT levels in the scalp, slowing down hair loss and stimulating hair regrowth.


How Does Dutasteride Work for Hair Loss?

Dutasteride works by inhibiting both type I and type II isoenzymes of 5-alpha-reductase, which convert testosterone into DHT. By blocking DHT formation, it reduces the harmful effects of DHT on hair follicles, allowing for:

  • Slowing of hair loss: Dutasteride reduces further hair thinning and helps maintain existing hair.

  • Hair regrowth: Some men may see an increase in hair growth, particularly on the crown and mid-scalp.

Because Dutasteride is more potent than Finasteride (as it inhibits both types of 5-alpha-reductase enzymes), it may be effective for patients who do not respond to Finasteride.


How to Take Dutasteride 0.5mg

  • Take one capsule (0.5mg) once a day, with or without food.

  • Swallow the capsule whole without chewing or crushing it.

  • If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.

  • Take the medication regularly to achieve the best results. Dutasteride can take 3 to 6 months to show visible effects.

Important note: Dutasteride is not approved for use in women or children. Pregnant women must avoid handling broken or leaking capsules due to the risk of birth defects.


How Effective is Dutasteride?

Studies have demonstrated that Dutasteride 0.5mg is highly effective in treating male pattern hair loss. It has been found to reduce DHT levels by over 90%, which can lead to:

  • Improvement in hair count: Significant regrowth has been observed, especially in men with early to moderate hair loss.

  • Slower hair loss: Dutasteride significantly slows down hair thinning and helps maintain current hair coverage.

In a study comparing Dutasteride and Finasteride, Dutasteride was shown to be more effective in increasing hair count and reducing scalp DHT levels.

For optimal results, Dutasteride should be taken for at least 6 to 12 months. If discontinued, hair loss is likely to resume within 6 to 12 months.


Possible Side Effects

As with any medication, Dutasteride can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them.

Common Side Effects (affecting 1 in 100 people):

  • Reduced libido (decreased interest in sex)

  • Difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection (erectile dysfunction)

  • Decreased semen volume during ejaculation

Rare Side Effects (affecting fewer than 1 in 1,000 people):

  • Breast tenderness or enlargement (gynaecomastia)

  • Testicular pain or swelling

  • Depression or mood changes

  • Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling of the lips or face)

If you notice any side effects, especially those not listed here, consult your doctor or trichology prescriber promptly.

Long-term Effects:

In rare cases, some men report persistent sexual side effects even after stopping the medication. If this occurs, discuss your symptoms with a healthcare provider.

Important Considerations

  • Pregnancy warning: Women who are or may become pregnant must not handle leaking or broken Dutasteride capsules as it may harm the developing baby.

  • Regular check-ups: Your healthcare provider may schedule follow-up appointments to assess your progress and adjust your treatment if needed.

  • Missed dose: If you miss a dose, do not take an extra capsule to make up for it. Continue with your regular schedule.

Scientific References

  1. Olsen EA, et al. Dutasteride in the treatment of male pattern hair loss. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 2006;55(6):1014-1023.

  2. Kawashima M, et al. Comparison of dutasteride and finasteride in the treatment of male pattern hair loss. Dermatologic Therapy. 2014;27(6):481-487.

  3. Drake L, et al. Effects of finasteride on hair growth in men with androgenetic alopecia. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 1999;40(6):930-937.

Need More Information?

If you have any questions or concerns about Dutasteride, please contact your healthcare provider or expert trichology prescriber for personalized advice.


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