Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Dutasteride as follows:
- Dutasteride can interact with a number of other medications and can precipitate serious reactions. If you are being newly started on Dutasteride, discuss with your physician regarding all other medications you are currently taking and their safety with Dutasteride. Also, if you have been taking Dutasteride for long, discuss with your physician regarding your history of Dutasteride intake, when you are being started on any new medication.
- Dutasteride is significantly metabolized in the liver to active metabolites that are mainly eliminated in the feces. If liver function is deficient, the metabolism of Dutasteride could be compromised. This can lead to increased blood levels of the medication for longer periods of time, resulting in increased risk for side-effects and consequent toxicity. So, in individuals with history of compromised liver function, Dutasteride could be used with caution and possible dose adjustments, periodical monitoring for liver functions and development of any toxicity symptoms with the medication.
- Periodical labs could be ordered to evaluate the levels of prostate specific antigen (PSA), which is a marker indicating any inflammation of prostate and risk for prostate cancer. With continued Dutasteride use, the levels of PSA are expected to fall, thus indicating reduced inflammation of prostate. Labs could also be ordered for liver function evaluation. Observe compliance with any lab draws ordered.
