Dutasteride
Two dutasteride products sit on this shelf: Avodart, the single-ingredient capsule, and Jalyn, which pairs dutasteride with tamsulosin. Both treat Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, the enlargement of the prostate gland.
Key points
- Dutasteride belongs to the 5-alpha reductase inhibitor class and blocks the enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT, the hormone that drives prostate growth.
- Women who are or may become pregnant must not handle dutasteride capsules, as touching the contents may harm a developing fetus.
- Dutasteride is also prescribed off-label for male pattern hair loss, supported by randomised clinical trials.
Common questions about Dutasteride
What is the difference between Avodart and Jalyn?
Avodart contains dutasteride alone at 0.5 mg. Jalyn adds 0.4 mg of tamsulosin, an alpha-blocker that relaxes the muscles around the prostate and bladder neck. The combination in Jalyn addresses two aspects of Prostate Health at once: dutasteride shrinks the gland over time, while tamsulosin eases urine flow.
How long does dutasteride take to work?
Dutasteride reaches a steady concentration in the body after roughly 3 to 6 months. A blood marker called PSA typically drops to about half its starting value after 3 months of treatment. This slow onset is due to the drug’s long half-life of up to 5 weeks, so it remains in the body long after the last dose.
Further reading
FAQ
In which products can I find dutasteride?
On Direct Meds, dutasteride comes as Avodart and Jalyn. Compare their forms, strengths and packs.
What brand names is dutasteride sold under?
Dutasteride is also sold under brand names such as Combodart. Names differ from country to country, so the active ingredient is the surest way to compare products.
How much does dutasteride cost in South Africa?
Compare the price of each product, strength and pack above. Prices are set in US dollars and converted.
Payment and prices →Do I need a prescription for dutasteride in South Africa?
No, not online. Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order dutasteride. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Do you deliver dutasteride to South Africa?
Yes. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.
How ordering works →Last updated
Related articles

22 Sept 2026 ⋅ 4 min read
Finasteride vs dutasteride for hair loss
Compare finasteride and dutasteride for male pattern hair loss: trial evidence, sexual and mood side effects, and what to discuss before switching.
Read guide
