Duprost 0.5 mg (Ditasteride)

What is Duprost 0.5 mg?

Duprost 0.5 mg is a prescription medication that contains Dutasteride, a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor. It is primarily used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also known as an enlarged prostate, in men. It may also be used off-label for male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia).

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What are the Uses of Duprost 0.5 mg?

• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): Reduces the size of an enlarged prostate, relieving urinary symptoms.

• Androgenetic Alopecia (off-label): May help slow hair loss and promote hair regrowth in men.

• Combination therapy: Sometimes used with tamsulosin for enhanced relief from BPH symptoms.

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What are the Benefits of Duprost 0.5 mg?

• Improves urine flow and reduces urinary retention

• Decreases the need for prostate surgery

• Reduces prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels

• May slow progression of hair loss in some men

• Once-daily oral dose makes it easy to adhere to

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How Does Duprost 0.5 mg Work?

Duprost contains Dutasteride, which blocks both type I and type II 5-alpha reductase enzymes. These enzymes convert testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone responsible for prostate enlargement and hair loss. By reducing DHT levels, Duprost:

• Shrinks the prostate gland

• Relieves BPH symptoms

• Potentially slows hair follicle miniaturization

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How to Take Duprost 0.5 mg?

• Take one capsule (0.5 mg) by mouth once daily

• Swallow whole with water—do not chew or crush

• Can be taken with or without food

• Consistency is key: take at the same time daily

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Dosage of Duprost 0.5 mg

• Standard dose: 0.5 mg once daily

• Duration: May take 3–6 months to see improvement in BPH or hair loss

• Do not double dose if missed—resume normal schedule

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Missed Dose and Overdose

• Missed dose: Take it as soon as you remember. Skip if it’s close to your next dose.

• Overdose: No specific antidote; symptoms are unlikely with single high dose. Seek medical attention if large quantities are consumed.

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Available Strengths of Duprost (Dutasteride)

• Duprost 0.5 mg is the standard available strength

• No lower-dose variants are typically marketed

• Also available under brand names: Avodart, Veltride, Dutas

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Side Effects of Duprost 0.5 mg

Common:

• Decreased libido

• Erectile dysfunction

• Decreased ejaculate volume

• Breast tenderness or enlargement (gynecomastia)

Rare/serious:

• Allergic reactions (rash, swelling)

• Depression or mood changes

• High-grade prostate cancer (rare association under investigation)

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Drug Interactions of Duprost 0.5 mg

• CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir): May increase dutasteride levels

• No significant interactions with food or alcohol, but alcohol may worsen BPH symptoms

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Precautions of Duprost 0.5 mg

• Not for use in women or children

• Inform doctor if you have liver disease

• Continue monitoring PSA levels—drug can reduce PSA without affecting cancer risk

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Storage Information

• Store at room temperature (15°C–30°C)

• Protect from moisture and heat

• Keep in original blister pack or container

• Keep out of reach of children

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Availability in the US and Australia

• US: Available under the brand name Avodart

• Australia: Available via prescription as Avodart, Dutasteride (generic), or imported brands like Duprost

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Frequently Asked Questions 

Q1. Can Duprost treat hair loss?

Yes, although not FDA-approved for this use, it is sometimes prescribed off-label for male pattern baldness. It may be more effective than finasteride in some cases.

Q2. How long does it take for Duprost to work?

For BPH, noticeable results may occur within 3–6 months. For hair loss, it may take 6–12 months for visible improvement.

Q3. Is Duprost safer than Finasteride?

Both drugs have similar side effect profiles. Duprost may be

slightly more effective in DHT suppression but can also cause more persistent sexual side effects in some users.

Q4. Can I stop taking Duprost once I feel better?

No. Stopping can lead to return of symptoms. Always consult your doctor before discontinuing.

Q5. Will it affect fertility?

Yes, it may reduce sperm count and semen volume, possibly affecting fertility. These changes are usually reversible upon discontinuation.