5-alpha reductase inhibitor (prostate shrinking medicine)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Dutasteride is a medicine that shrinks an enlarged prostate gland by blocking a hormone called DHT that makes the prostate grow bigger. It is sold in Nigeria under brand names like Avodart and Dutaz.
Inhibits 5-alpha reductase enzymes (types 1 and 2), preventing the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and reducing prostate volume. This decreases urinary obstruction and improves lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, just skip the missed one and continue as normal. Do not take two capsules at once to make up for it.
Buy only from licensed pharmacies: products like Avodart or Dutaz from roadside sellers may be fake or expired. Do not share this medicine with anyone, especially women. If you are going for a PSA blood test (a prostate cancer screening test), tell your doctor you are taking dutasteride because it lowers your PSA results and can affect the reading.
If you are taking medicines for HIV or infections that contain ketoconazole, itraconazole, or ritonavir, they can increase the level of dutasteride in your body, so tell your doctor. Alpha-blockers like tamsulosin (often prescribed alongside dutasteride for prostate) are generally safe together but your doctor should monitor you. Alcohol does not directly interact, but it can worsen dizziness.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Dutasteride with your other drugs?
Dutasteride is strictly NOT for women. Pregnant women or women who may become pregnant must NEVER handle broken or opened capsules, as even skin contact can harm an unborn baby.
Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be hot, so keep it in a cool, dry place, not in your car or near a window. Keep it well away from children and women.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.