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Glossary
5 alpha-reductase (5AR)
An enzyme that changes the male hormone testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is thought to be the main cause of an enlarged prostate.
Alpha blockers
A type of prescription medication which can rapidly improve urinary symptoms associated with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). These drugs work by relaxing smooth muscle in the prostate and bladder.
Acute urinary retention (AUR)
When the prostate becomes so enlarged that it completely blocks urine from coming out of the bladder. Acute urinary retention is considered a medical emergency requiring urgent medical attention.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
A common condition in which the prostate grows and can place pressure on the urethra, which over time can lead to bothersome urinary symptoms.
Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)
When a doctor inserts a gloved and lubricated finger into the anus to determine if the prostate is enlarged or if there is anything unusual on the surface of the prostate or in the rectum.
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)
The male hormone believed to be mainly responsible for enlargement of the prostate. Made from testosterone by an enzyme called 5 alpha-reductase (5AR).
Enlarged Prostate (EP)
A term sometimes used to refer to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH).
Prostate
A male gland that makes fluids important to the health of the semen (seminal fluid).
Prostate Cancer
The most common non-skin cancer diagnosed in American men today.
Prostate Gland
A walnut-sized gland made of two lobes that surrounds the urethra.
Prostatitis
Inflammation or infection of the prostate gland, usually caused by bacteria.
Prostate-specific antigen (PSA)
A protein made by the prostate gland.
Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test
A simple blood test that checks for the amount of PSA in the blood. Because PSA levels rise whenever there is a disturbance to the prostate, this test can help alert physicians of conditions like prostate cancer, BPH, and prostatitis.
Urethra
The tube that carries urine and semen out of the body.
Urinary Symptoms
Typical urinary symptoms associated with BPH include:
- Feeling the need to urinate frequently
- Difficulty starting to urinate
- Difficulty emptying the bladder completely, and because of this, urine may dribble
- A weak stream that may start and stop
- Frequently going at night
- Sudden strong urges to urinate
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Indication and Important Safety Information About AVODART® (dutasteride)
AVODART alone and in combination with the alpha blocker tamsulosin is indicated for the treatment of symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men with an enlarged prostate to improve symptoms. AVODART alone also reduces the risk of acute urinary retention (AUR) and prostate surgery. AUR is a condition, possibly requiring surgery, where the prostate is so enlarged that it completely blocks urine coming from the bladder.
Only your health care provider can tell if your symptoms are from BPH and not a more serious condition, such as prostate cancer. See your doctor for regular exams.
Women and children should not take AVODART. Women who are or could become pregnant should not handle AVODART due to the potential risk of a specific birth defect.
Do not donate blood until at least 6 months after stopping AVODART.
Tell your doctor if you have liver disease. AVODART may not be right for you.
Possible side effects, including sexual side effects and swelling or tenderness of the breast, occur infrequently. Dizziness and an increase in drug-related ejaculation disorders also occurred with combination therapy (AVODART and tamsulosin).
While some men have fewer problems and symptoms after 3 months of treatment with AVODART, a treatment period of at least 6 months is usually necessary to see if AVODART will work for you.
Click here for complete Prescribing Information for AVODART Soft Gelatin Capsules, 0.5 mg.
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