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Skin & Hair
Dutasteride
Dutasteride · 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor
A dual 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor authorized for benign prostatic hyperplasia.
- Partner pharmacy
- Personal assistance
- Discreet delivery
- Active ingredientDutasteride
- AdministrationOral
Shipping & Delivery
- Normally dispatched within 24 hours of payment confirmation.
- UPS Express · C$25 · Approx. 7–9 business days
- Registered Mail · C$15 · Approx. 14–20 business days
What Dutasteride is
Dutasteride inhibits both type 1 and type 2 5-alpha-reductase, lowering dihydrotestosterone (DHT). In the UK, the EU and the US it is authorized for benign prostatic hyperplasia; in some countries it is also authorized for male pattern hair loss.
Suitability and dosing are decided by a prescriber on the basis of the approved product information.
Both forms of 5-alpha-reductase, one capsule
Dutasteride inhibits both the type 1 and type 2 forms of 5-alpha-reductase, the enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). It lowers DHT more than finasteride, which inhibits mainly type 2, and has a much longer half-life of several weeks.
Type 1 and type 2Both forms of the enzyme are inhibited.
DHTCirculating levels are strongly reduced.
In a randomized trial in men with androgenetic alopecia, dutasteride 0.5 mg increased hair counts compared with placebo and finasteride.1
Side effects and warnings
Reported side effects include:
- Reduced libido, erectile dysfunction and ejaculation disorders
- Breast tenderness or enlargement
- Depression and, rarely, suicidal thoughts.2
ImportantSexual side effects may persist after stopping. Dutasteride roughly halves PSA values, which must be taken into account in prostate testing. Women who are or may become pregnant must not handle leaking capsules. Always read the patient information leaflet.
Product information
Patient information leafletSupplied by the partner pharmacy
Summary of Product CharacteristicsOfficial product information
Common questions
Do I need a prescription?
Dutasteride is a prescription-only medicine. After your request, the partner pharmacy verifies whether and how supply is possible, for example through an existing prescription or an assessment by an independent doctor where permitted.
How is it different from finasteride?
Dutasteride inhibits both forms of 5-alpha-reductase and lowers DHT more; finasteride inhibits mainly type 2. For hair loss, finasteride 1 mg is the authorized option in the UK.
Why is blood donation restricted?
Because of its long half-life, men taking dutasteride should not donate blood until at least 6 months after the last dose, as set out in the product information.
Do I pay when I send a request?
No. Payment is arranged individually with customer service once your request has been reviewed and can proceed.
Sources
- Gubelin Harcha W, et al. A randomized, active- and placebo-controlled study of the efficacy and safety of different doses of dutasteride versus placebo and finasteride in the treatment of male subjects with androgenetic alopecia. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2014;70:489–498.
- MHRA. Finasteride and dutasteride: updated safety warnings for psychiatric side effects and sexual dysfunction. Drug Safety Update, 11 May 2026.
- Avodart 0.5 mg soft capsules: Summary of Product Characteristics.
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