The client has been prescribed dutasteride (Avodart) for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Which potential adverse effects w
ould the nurse include in the medication teaching for this medication? (Select all that apply.) a Impotence
b Decreased volume of ejaculate
c Gynecomastia
d Decreased libido
e Renal insufficiency
Answer:A) Impotence b) decreased volume of ejaculate C) Gynaecomastia d) decreased libido
Explanation:
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland (prostate gland is a gland in the male reproductive system located below the bladder, the gland helps to control urination and forms part of the semen content) Enlargement of the prostate gland could compress the urinary tube thereby impeding the outflow of urine.
Dustateride used to treat BPH helps to improve urine flow by preventing the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone in the body (dihydrotestosterone is an hormone responsible for the growth of the prostate gland and other reproductive systems) therefore preventation of this conversion stops the further enlargement of the prostate gland thus improving urine flow.
Side effects of drugs that block the production of dihydrotestosterone in men (e.g. Dutasteride) causes low amount of the hormone and could cause the following side effects ; Excess fat development around the breast (Gynaecomastia), erectile dysfunction, ejaculation disorder and decreased libido.
