Dutasteride is supplied in 0.5 mg. The standard approach is 0.5 mg once daily
Strength and use
| Strength | Typical role |
|---|---|
| 0.5 mg | Starting or low-dose maintenance |
Titration path
- 1
Step 1: initiate
Begin at the lowest useful strength of 0.5 mg.
- 2
Step 2: assess
Review after the onset window of measurable DHT suppression within 2 weeks.
- 3
Step 3: escalate
Move up one strength only if the response is partial and tolerance is good.
- 4
Step 4: maintain
Hold at the lowest effective dose for BPH and off-label androgenetic alopecia and review periodically.
Key takeaways
- Standard dosing: 0.5 mg once daily
- Dosing interval: 5-week half-life, daily dosing.
- Never double up after a missed dose: resume the normal schedule.
- Store below 30 °C to protect potency across the shelf life.
Missed doses and adherence
If a dose is missed and the next one is close, skip it. Doubling increases the risk of libido change without improving outcomes. Blister packaging and clear dispensing labels measurably improve adherence on soft gelatin capsule lines.
Dutasteride at a glance
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Drug class | dual 5-alpha reductase inhibitor |
| Common brand | Avodart |
| Licensed use | BPH and off-label androgenetic alopecia |
| Available strengths | 0.5 mg |
| Dosage form | soft gelatin capsule |
| Typical onset | measurable DHT suppression within 2 weeks |
| Duration / dosing interval | 5-week half-life, daily dosing |
| Storage | below 30 °C |