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Glossary

5α-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 drug used to reduce the symptoms of an enlarged prostate. These drugs have not been shown to shrink the size of the prostate or reduce the risk of prostate surgery. These work by relaxing the muscle tissue in the bladder and prostate. This allows urine to flow more easily.

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)
Medical term for Enlarging Prostate.

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 5α-reductase (5AR).

Enlarging or Enlarged Prostate (EP)
A common condition in which the prostate grows and places pressure on the urethra, which over time can lead to bothersome urinary issues or prostate surgery.

Prostate
A male gland that manufactures fluids important to the health of the semen (seminal fluid).

Prostate Cancer
The most common cancer diagnosed in men today.

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 blood test that checks for the amount of PSA in your blood. Because PSA levels rise wherever there is a disturbance to the prostate, this test can help alert physicians of conditions like prostatitis, Enlarged Prostate, and prostate cancer. Men with PSA levels over 1.4 ng/mL may have a greater chance of problems from enlarged prostate.

Urethra
The tube that carries urine and semen out of the body.

Indication and Important Safety Information About AVODART^® (dutasteride):

AVODART is used to treat urinary symptoms of Enlarging Prostate, and to reduce 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 Enlarging Prostate 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. 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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