The active pharmaceutical ingredient contained in Dutanol is Dutasteride. Dutanol is used for treating symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or enlargement of the prostate gland. It also helps to reduce the risk of urinary blockage and the need for prostate surgery. It may also be used along with other medicines.

Dutanol is a 5 alpha-reductase enzyme inhibitor. It works by lowering levels of a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is a major cause of prostate growth. Lowering DHT leads to shrinkage of the enlarged prostate gland.

Dutanol is the most powerful treatment currently available for treating hair loss in men. Dutasteride is a substance similar to Propecia's finasteride but considered to be a more powerful DHT blocker than finasteride as it inhibits both types of 5-alpha reductase. It showed improved results versus finasteride, especially in the frontal area of the scalp, and it can be used successfully by patients who no longer respond to finasteride. Dutanol can only be used by adult men.

Use Dutanol  as directed by your doctor. Dutanol may be taken with or without food, swallow Dutanol whole. Do not break, crush, or chew before swallowing. It may take 3 to 6 months for Dutanol to work. Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Dutanol.

If you miss a dose of Dutanol, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome: breast enlargement and/or tenderness, decreased sex drive; decreased volume of ejaculate; inability to have an erection. Seek medical attention right away if any of these severe side effects occur: severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue).

Store Dutanol between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) in a tightly closed, light-resistant container. Store away from moisture, heat, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not take tablets after the expiration date printed on the label. Keep Dutanol out of the reach of children and away from pets.