Generic Avodart Now Available

A generic version of Avodart, used to treat the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men with an enlarged prostate, has been launched by Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.

Teva’s dutasteride capsules, equivalent to GlaxoSmithKline’s Avodart 0.5 mg, lower the production of dihydrotestosterone, thereby relieving symptoms of BPH.

In addition to improving symptoms, dutasteride capsules can reduce the risk of acute urinary retention and reduce the risk of the need for BPH-related surgery.

The capsules are not indicated for the reduction of prostate cancer risk.

Adverse effects of dutasteride include impotence, decreased libido, ejaculation disorders, and breast disorders. The drug may also increase the risk of high-grade prostate cancer.

Patients who take dutasteride should not donate blood until 6 months after they have stopped using the medication.