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Medically reviewed by Fedorchenko Olga Valeryevna, PharmD. Last updated on 22.03.2022
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Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) Treatment
Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride)® (dutasteride and tamsulosin hydrochloride) capsules are indicated for the treatment of symptomatic BPH in men with an enlarged prostate.
Limitations Of Use
Dutasteride-containing products, including Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride), are not approved for the prevention of prostate cancer.
The recommended dosage of Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) is 1 capsule (0.5 mg dutasteride and 0.4 mg tamsulosin hydrochloride) taken once daily approximately 30 minutes after the same meal each day.
The capsules should be swallowed whole and not chewed or opened. Contact with the contents of the Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) capsule may result in irritation of the oropharyngeal mucosa.
Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) is contraindicated for use in:
- Pregnancy. In animal reproduction and developmental toxicity studies, dutasteride inhibited development of male fetus external genitalia. Therefore, Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. If Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) is used during pregnancy, or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride), the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus.
- Women of childbearing potential.
- Pediatric patients.
- Patients with previously demonstrated, clinically significant hypersensitivity (e.g., serious skin reactions, angioedema, urticaria, pruritus, respiratory symptoms) to dutasteride, other 5alpha-reductase inhibitors, tamsulosin, or any other component of Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride).
WARNINGS
Included as part of the "PRECAUTIONS" Section
PRECAUTIONS
Orthostatic Hypotension
As with other alpha-adrenergic antagonists, orthostatic hypotension (postural hypotension, dizziness, and vertigo) may occur in patients treated with tamsulosin-containing products, including Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride), and can result in syncope. Patients starting treatment with Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) should be cautioned to avoid situations where syncope could result in an injury.
Drug-Drug Interactions
Strong Inhibitors Of CYP3A4
Tamsulosin-containing products, including Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride), should not be coadministered with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole) as this can significantly increase tamsulosin exposure.
Moderate Inhibitors Of CYP3A4, Inhibitors Of CYP2D6, Or A Combination Of Both CYP3A4 And CYP2D6 Inhibitors
Tamsulosin-containing products, including Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride), should be used with caution when coadministered with moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 (e.g., erythromycin), strong (e.g., paroxetine) or moderate (e.g., terbinafine) inhibitors of CYP2D6, a combination of both CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 inhibitors, or in patients known to be poor metabolizers of CYP2D6, as there is a potential for significant increase in tamsulosin exposure.
Cimetidine
Caution is advised when tamsulosin-containing products, including Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride), are coadministered with cimetidine.
Other Alpha-Adrenergic Antagonists
Tamsulosin-containing products, including Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride), should not be coadministered with other alpha-adrenergic antagonists because of the increased risk of symptomatic hypotension.
Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) Inhibitors
Caution is advised when alpha-adrenergic-antagonist-containing products, including Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride), are coadministered with PDE-5 inhibitors. Alpha-adrenergic antagonists and PDE-5 inhibitors are both vasodilators that can lower blood pressure. Concomitant use of these 2 drug classes can potentially cause symptomatic hypotension.
Warfarin
Caution should be exercised with concomitant administration of warfarin and tamsulosincontaining products, including Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride).
Effects On Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) And The Use Of PSA In Prostate Cancer Detection
Coadministration of dutasteride with tamsulosin resulted in similar changes to serum PSA as with dutasteride monotherapy.
In clinical trials, dutasteride reduced serum PSA concentration by approximately 50% within 3 to 6 months of treatment. This decrease was predictable over the entire range of PSA values in patients with symptomatic BPH, although it may vary in individuals. Dutasteride-containing treatment, including Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride), may also cause decreases in serum PSA in the presence of prostate cancer. To interpret serial PSAs in men treated with a dutasteride-containing product, including Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride), a new baseline PSA should be established at least 3 months after starting treatment and PSA monitored periodically thereafter. Any confirmed increase from the lowest PSA value while on a dutasteride-containing treatment, including Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride), may signal the presence of prostate cancer and should be evaluated, even if PSA levels are still within the normal range for men not taking a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor. Noncompliance with Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) may also affect PSA test results.
To interpret an isolated PSA value in a man treated with Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride), for 3 months or more, the PSA value should be doubled for comparison with normal values in untreated men.
The free-to-total PSA ratio (percent free PSA) remains constant, even under the influence of dutasteride. If clinicians elect to use percent free PSA as an aid in the detection of prostate cancer in men receiving Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride), no adjustment to its value appears necessary.
Increased Risk Of High-Grade Prostate Cancer
In men aged 50 to 75 years with a prior negative biopsy for prostate cancer and a baseline PSA between 2.5 ng/mL and 10.0 ng/mL taking dutasteride in the 4-year Reduction by Dutasteride of Prostate Cancer Events (REDUCE) trial, there was an increased incidence of Gleason score 8 to 10 prostate cancer compared with men taking placebo (dutasteride 1.0% versus placebo 0.5%). In a 7-year placebo-controlled clinical trial with another 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor (finasteride 5 mg, PROSCAR®), similar results for Gleason score 8 to 10 prostate cancer were observed (finasteride 1.8% versus placebo 1.1%).
5-alpha-reductase inhibitors may increase the risk of development of high-grade prostate cancer. Whether the effect of 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors to reduce prostate volume or trial-related factors impacted the results of these trials has not been established.
Evaluation For Other Urological Diseases
Prior to initiating treatment with Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride), consideration should be given to other urological conditions that may cause similar symptoms. In addition, BPH and prostate cancer may coexist.
Exposure Of Women–Risk To Male Fetus
Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) capsules should not be handled by a woman who is pregnant or who could become pregnant. Dutasteride is absorbed through the skin and could result in unintended fetal exposure. If a woman who is pregnant or could become pregnant comes in contact with a leaking capsule, the contact area should be washed immediately with soap and water.
Priapism
Priapism (persistent painful penile erection unrelated to sexual activity) has been associated (probably less than 1 in 50,000) with the use of alpha-adrenergic antagonists, including tamsulosin, which is a component of Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride). Because this condition can lead to permanent impotence if not properly treated, patients should be advised about the seriousness of the condition.
Blood Donation
Men being treated with a dutasteride-containing product, including Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride), should not donate blood until at least 6 months have passed following their last dose. The purpose of this deferred period is to prevent administration of dutasteride to a pregnant female transfusion recipient.
Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome
Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome (IFIS) has been observed during cataract and glaucoma surgery in some patients on or previously treated with alpha-adrenergic antagonists, including tamsulosin, which is a component of Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride).
Most reports were in patients taking the alpha-adrenergic antagonist when IFIS occurred, but in some cases, the alpha-adrenergic antagonist had been stopped prior to surgery. In most of these cases, the alpha-adrenergic antagonist had been stopped recently prior to surgery (2 to 14 days), but in a few cases, IFIS was reported after the patients had been off the alpha-adrenergic antagonist for a longer period (5 weeks to 9 months). IFIS is a variant of small pupil syndrome and is characterized by the combination of a flaccid iris that billows in response to intraoperative irrigation currents, progressive intraoperative miosis despite preoperative dilation with standard mydriatic drugs, and potential prolapse of the iris toward the phacoemulsification incisions. The patient’s ophthalmologist should be prepared for possible modifications to their surgical technique, such as the utilization of iris hooks, iris dilator rings, or viscoelastic substances.
IFIS may increase the risk of eye complications during and after the operation. The benefit of stopping alpha-adrenergic antagonist therapy prior to cataract or glaucoma surgery has not been established. The initiation of therapy with tamsulosin in patients for whom cataract or glaucoma surgery is scheduled is not recommended.
Sulfa Allergy
In patients with sulfa allergy, allergic reaction to tamsulosin has been rarely reported. If a patient reports a serious or life-threatening sulfa allergy, caution is warranted when administering tamsulosin-containing products, including Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride).
Effect On Semen Characteristics
Dutasteride
The effects of dutasteride 0.5 mg/day on semen characteristics were evaluated in normal volunteers aged 18 to 52 (n = 27 dutasteride, n = 23 placebo) throughout 52 weeks of treatment and 24 weeks of post-treatment follow-up. At 52 weeks, the mean percent reductions from baseline in total sperm count, semen volume, and sperm motility were 23%, 26%, and 18%, respectively, in the dutasteride group when adjusted for changes from baseline in the placebo group. Sperm concentration and sperm morphology were unaffected. After 24 weeks of follow-up, the mean percent change in total sperm count in the dutasteride group remained 23% lower than baseline. While mean values for all semen parameters at all time-points remained within the normal ranges and did not meet predefined criteria for a clinically significant change (30%), 2 subjects in the dutasteride group had decreases in sperm count of greater than 90% from baseline at 52 weeks, with partial recovery at the 24-week follow-up. The clinical significance of dutasteride’s effect on semen characteristics for an individual patient’s fertility is not known.
Tamsulosin
The effects of tamsulosin hydrochloride on sperm counts or sperm function have not been evaluated.
Patient Counseling Information
Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (PATIENT INFORMATION).
Orthostatic Hypotension
Inform patients about the possible occurrence of symptoms related to orthostatic hypotension, such as dizziness and vertigo, and the potential risk of syncope when taking Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride). Caution patients starting treatment with Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) to avoid situations where injury could result should syncope occur (e.g., driving, operating machinery, performing hazardous tasks). Advise patients to sit or lie down at the first signs of orthostatic hypotension.
Drug Interactions
Advise patients that Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) should not be used in combination with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4.
PSA Monitoring
Inform patients that Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) reduces serum PSA levels by approximately 50% within 3 to 6 months of therapy, although it may vary for each individual. For patients undergoing PSA screening, increases in PSA levels while on treatment with Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) may signal the presence of prostate cancer and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Risk Of High-Grade Prostate Cancer
Inform patients that there was an increase in high-grade prostate cancer in men treated with 5alpha-reductase inhibitors (which are indicated for BPH treatment), including dutasteride, which is a component of Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride), compared with those treated with placebo in trials looking at the use of these drugs to reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
Exposure Of Women–Risk To Male Fetus
Inform patients that Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) capsules should not be handled by a woman who is pregnant or who could become pregnant because of the potential for absorption of dutasteride and the subsequent potential risk to a developing male fetus. Dutasteride is absorbed through the skin and could result in unintended fetal exposure. If a pregnant woman or woman of childbearing potential comes in contact with leaking Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) capsules, the contact area should be washed immediately with soap and water.
Instructions For Use
Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) capsules should be swallowed whole and not chewed, crushed, or opened. Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) capsules may become deformed and/or discolored if kept at high temperatures. If this occurs, capsules should not be used.
Priapism
Inform patients about the possibility of priapism as a result of treatment with Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) or other alpha-adrenergic–antagonist-containing medications. Inform patients that this reaction is extremely rare, but can lead to permanent erectile dysfunction if not brought to immediate medical attention.
Blood Donation
Inform men treated with Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) that they should not donate blood until at least 6 months following their last dose to prevent pregnant women from receiving dutasteride through blood transfusion. Serum levels of dutasteride are detectable for 4 to 6 months after treatment ends.
Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome (IFIS)
Advise patients considering cataract or glaucoma surgery to tell their ophthalmologist that they take or have taken Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride), an alpha adrenergic antagonist-containing product.
Nonclinical Toxicology
Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment Of Fertility
No non-clinical studies have been conducted with Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride). The following information is based on studies performed with dutasteride or tamsulosin.
Carcinogenesis
Dutasteride
A 2-year carcinogenicity study was conducted in B6C3F1 mice at doses of 3, 35, 250, and 500 mg/kg/day for males and 3, 35, and 250 mg/kg/day for females; an increased incidence of benign hepatocellular adenomas was noted at 250 mg/kg/day (290-fold the MRHD of a 0.5-mg daily dose) in female mice only. Two of the 3 major human metabolites have been detected in mice. The exposure to these metabolites in mice is either lower than in humans or is not known.
In a 2-year carcinogenicity study in Han Wistar rats, at doses of 1.5, 7.5, and 53 mg/kg/day in males and 0.8, 6.3, and 15 mg/kg/day in females, there was an increase in Leydig cell adenomas in the testes at 135-fold the MRHD (53 mg/kg/day and greater). An increased incidence of Leydig cell hyperplasia was present at 52-fold the MRHD (male rat doses of 7.5 mg/kg/day and greater). A positive correlation between proliferative changes in the Leydig cells and an increase in circulating luteinizing hormone levels has been demonstrated with 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors and is consistent with an effect on the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis following 5-alpha-reductase inhibition. At tumorigenic doses, luteinizing hormone levels in rats were increased by 167%. In this study, the major human metabolites were tested for carcinogenicity at approximately 1 to 3 times the expected clinical exposure.
Tamsulosin
In a rat carcinogenicity assay, no increases in tumor incidence was observed in rats administered up to 3 times the MRHD of 0.8 mg/day (based on AUC of animal doses up to 43 mg/kg/day in males and up to 52 mg/kg/day in females), with the exception of a modest increase in the frequency of mammary gland fibroadenomas in female rats receiving doses of 5.4 mg/kg or greater.
In a carcinogenicity assay, mice were administered up to 8 times the MRHD of tamsulosin (oral doses up to 127 mg/kg/day in males and 158 mg/kg/day in females). There were no significant tumor findings in male mice. Female mice treated for 2 years with the 2 highest doses of 45 and 158 mg/kg/day had statistically significant increases in the incidence of mammary gland fibroadenomas (P<0.0001) and adenocarcinomas.
The increased incidences of mammary gland neoplasms in female rats and mice were considered secondary to tamsulosin-induced hyperprolactinemia. It is not known if tamsulosin elevates prolactin in humans. The relevance for human risk of the findings of prolactin-mediated endocrine tumors in rodents is not known.
Mutagenesis
Dutasteride
Dutasteride was tested for genotoxicity in a bacterial mutagenesis assay (Ames test), a chromosomal aberration assay in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, and a micronucleus assay in rats. The results did not indicate any genotoxic potential of the parent drug. Two major human metabolites were also negative in either the Ames test or an abbreviated Ames test.
Tamsulosin
Tamsulosin produced no evidence of mutagenic potential in vitro in the Ames reverse mutation test, mouse lymphoma thymidine kinase assay, unscheduled DNA repair synthesis assay, and chromosomal aberration assays in CHO cells or human lymphocytes. There were no mutagenic effects in the in vivo sister chromatid exchange and mouse micronucleus assay.
Impairment Of Fertility
Dutasteride
Treatment of sexually mature male rats with dutasteride at 0.1-to 110-fold the MRHD (animal doses of 0.05, 10, 50, and 500 mg/kg/day for up to 31 weeks) resulted in dose-and time-dependent decreases in fertility; reduced cauda epididymal (absolute) sperm counts but not sperm concentration (at 50 and 500 mg/kg/day); reduced weights of the epididymis, prostate, and seminal vesicles; and microscopic changes in the male reproductive organs. The fertility effects were reversed by recovery week 6 at all doses, and sperm counts were normal at the end of a 14-week recovery period. The 5-alpha-reductase.related changes consisted of cytoplasmic vacuolation of tubular epithelium in the epididymides and decreased cytoplasmic content of epithelium, consistent with decreased secretory activity in the prostate and seminal vesicles. The microscopic changes were no longer present at recovery week 14 in the low-dose group and were partly recovered in the remaining treatment groups. Low levels of dutasteride (0.6 to 17 ng/mL) were detected in the serum of untreated female rats mated to males dosed at 10, 50, or 500 mg/kg/day for 29 to 30 weeks.
In a fertility study in female rats, oral administration of dutasteride at doses of 0.05, 2.5, 12.5, and 30 mg/kg/day resulted in reduced litter size, increased embryo resorption and feminization of male fetuses (decreased anogenital distance) at 2-to 10-fold the MRHD (animal doses of 2.5 mg/kg/day or greater). Fetal body weights were also reduced at less than 0.02-fold the MRHD in rats (0.5 mg/kg/day).
Tamsulosin
Studies in rats revealed significantly reduced fertility in males at approximately 50 times the MRHD based on AUC (single or multiple daily doses of 300 mg/kg/day of tamsulosin hydrochloride). The mechanism of decreased fertility in male rats is considered to be an effect of the compound on the vaginal plug formation possibly due to changes of semen content or impairment of ejaculation. The effects on fertility were reversible showing improvement by 3 days after a single dose and 4 weeks after multiple dosing. Effects on fertility in males were completely reversed within nine weeks of discontinuation of multiple dosing. Multiple doses of 0.2 and 16 times the MRHD (animal doses of 10 and 100 mg/kg/day tamsulosin hydrochloride) did not significantly alter fertility in male rats. Effects of tamsulosin on sperm counts or sperm function have not been evaluated.
Studies in female rats revealed significant reductions in fertility after single or multiple dosing with 300 mg/kg/day of the R-isomer or racemic mixture of tamsulosin hydrochloride, respectively. In female rats, the reductions in fertility after single doses were considered to be associated with impairments in fertilization. Multiple dosing with 10 or 100 mg/kg/day of the racemic mixture did not significantly alter fertility in female rats.
Estimates of exposure multiples comparing animal studies with the MRHD for dutasteride are based on clinical serum concentration at steady state.
Estimates of exposure multiples comparing animal studies with the MRHD for tamsulosin are based on AUC.
Use In Specific Populations
Pregnancy
Pregnancy Category X. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women with Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) or its individual components.
Dutasteride
Dutasteride is contraindicated for use in women of childbearing potential and during pregnancy. Dutasteride is a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor that prevents conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone necessary for normal development of male genitalia. In animal reproduction and developmental toxicity studies, dutasteride inhibited normal development of external genitalia in male fetuses. Therefore, dutasteride may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. If dutasteride is used during pregnancy or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking dutasteride, the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus.
Abnormalities in the genitalia of male fetuses is an expected physiological consequence of inhibition of the conversion of testosterone to DHT by 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors. These results are similar to observations in male infants with genetic 5-alpha-reductase deficiency. Dutasteride is absorbed through the skin. To avoid potential fetal exposure, women who are pregnant or could become pregnant should not handle dutasteride-containing capsules, including Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) capsules. If contact is made with leaking capsules, the contact area should be washed immediately with soap and water. Dutasteride is secreted into semen. The highest measured semen concentration of dutasteride in treated men was 14 ng/mL. Assuming exposure of a 50-kg woman to 5 mL of semen and 100% absorption, the woman’s dutasteride concentration would be about 0.0175 ng/mL. This concentration is more than 100 times less than concentrations producing abnormalities of male genitalia in animal studies. Dutasteride is highly protein bound in human semen (greater than 96%), which may reduce the amount of dutasteride available for vaginal absorption.
In an embryo-fetal development study in female rats, oral administration of dutasteride at doses 10 times less than the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 0.5 mg daily resulted in abnormalities of male genitalia in the fetus (decreased anogenital distance at 0.05 mg/kg/day), nipple development, hypospadias, and distended preputial glands in male offspring (at all doses of 0.05, 2.5, 12.5, and 30 mg/kg/day). An increase in stillborn pups was observed at 111 times the MRHD, and reduced fetal body weight was observed at doses of about 15 times the MRHD (animal dose of 2.5 mg/kg/day). Increased incidences of skeletal variations considered to be delays in ossification associated with reduced body weight were observed at doses at about 56 times the MRHD (animal dose of 12.5 mg/kg/day).
In a rabbit embryo-fetal study, doses 28-to 93-fold the MRHD (animal doses of 30, 100, and 200 mg/kg/day) were administered orally during the period of major organogenesis (gestation days 7 to 29) to encompass the late period of external genitalia development. Histological evaluation of the genital papilla of fetuses revealed evidence of feminization of the male fetus at all doses. A second embryo-fetal study in rabbits at 0.3-to 53-fold the expected clinical exposure (animal doses of 0.05, 0.4, 3.0, and 30 mg/kg/day) also produced evidence of feminization of the genitalia in male fetuses at all doses.
In an oral pre-and post-natal development study in rats, dutasteride doses of 0.05, 2.5, 12.5, or 30 mg/kg/day were administered. Unequivocal evidence of feminization of the genitalia (i.e., decreased anogenital distance, increased incidence of hypospadias, nipple development) of male offspring occurred at 14-to 90-fold the MRHD (animal doses of 2.5 mg/kg/day or greater). At 0.05-fold the expected clinical exposure (animal dose of 0.05 mg/kg/day), evidence of feminization was limited to a small, but statistically significant, decrease in anogenital distance. Animal doses of 2.5 to 30 mg/kg/day resulted in prolonged gestation in the parental females and a decrease in time to vaginal patency for female offspring and a decrease in prostate and seminal vesicle weights in male offspring. Effects on newborn startle response were noted at doses greater than or equal to 12.5 mg/kg/day. Increased stillbirths were noted at 30 mg/kg/day.
In an embryo-fetal development study, pregnant rhesus monkeys were exposed intravenously to a dutasteride blood level comparable to the dutasteride concentration found in human semen. Dutasteride was administered on gestation days 20 to 100 at doses of 400, 780, 1,325, or 2,010 ng/day (12 monkeys/group). The development of male external genitalia of monkey offspring was not adversely affected. Reduction of fetal adrenal weights, reduction in fetal prostate weights, and increases in fetal ovarian and testis weights were observed at the highest dose tested in monkeys. Based on the highest measured semen concentration of dutasteride in treated men (14 ng/mL), these doses represent 0.8 to 16 times the potential maximum exposure of a 50-kg human female to 5 mL semen daily from a dutasteride-treated man, assuming 100% absorption. (These calculations are based on blood levels of parent drug which are achieved at 32 to 186 times the daily doses administered to pregnant monkeys on a ng/kg basis). Dutasteride is highly bound to proteins in human semen (greater than 96%), potentially reducing the amount of dutasteride available for vaginal absorption. It is not known whether rabbits or rhesus monkeys produce any of the major human metabolites.
Estimates of exposure multiples comparing animal studies to the MRHD for dutasteride are based on clinical serum concentration at steady state.
Tamsulosin
Administration of tamsulosin to pregnant female rats at dose levels up to approximately 50 times the human therapeutic AUC exposure (animal dose of 300 mg/kg/day) revealed no evidence of harm to the fetus. Administration of tamsulosin hydrochloride to pregnant rabbits at dose levels up to 50 mg/kg/day produced no evidence of fetal harm. However, because of the effect of dutasteride on the fetus, Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) is contraindicated for use in pregnant women. Estimates of exposure multiples comparing animal studies to the MRHD for tamsulosin are based on AUC.
Nursing Mothers
Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) is contraindicated for use in women of childbearing potential, including nursing women. It is not known whether dutasteride or tamsulosin is excreted in human milk.
Pediatric Use
Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) is contraindicated for use in pediatric patients. Safety and effectiveness of Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) in pediatric patients have not been established.
Geriatric Use
Of 1,610 male subjects treated with coadministered dutasteride and tamsulosin in the CombAT trial, 58% of enrolled subjects were aged 65 years and older and 13% of enrolled subjects were aged 75 years and older. No overall differences in safety or efficacy were observed between these subjects and younger subjects but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out.
Renal Impairment
The effect of renal impairment on dutasteride and tamsulosin pharmacokinetics has not been studied using Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride). Because no dosage adjustment is necessary for dutasteride or tamsulosin in patients with moderate-to-severe renal impairment (10≤ CLcr <30 mL/min/1.73 m2), no dosage adjustment is necessary for Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) in patients with moderate-to-severe renal impairment. However, patients with end-stage renal disease (CLcr<10 mL/min/1.73 m2) have not been studied.
Hepatic Impairment
The effect of hepatic impairment on dutasteride and tamsulosin pharmacokinetics has not been studied using Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride). The following text reflects information available for the individual components.
Dutasteride
The effect of hepatic impairment on dutasteride pharmacokinetics has not been studied. Because dutasteride is extensively metabolized, exposure could be higher in hepatically impaired patients. However, in a clinical trial where 60 subjects received 5 mg (10 times the therapeutic dose) daily for 24 weeks, no additional adverse events were observed compared with those observed at the therapeutic dose of 0.5 mg.
Tamsulosin
Patients with moderate hepatic impairment do not require an adjustment in tamsulosin dosage. Tamsulosin has not been studied in patients with severe hepatic impairment.
Clinical Trials Experience
The clinical efficacy and safety of coadministered dutasteride and tamsulosin, which are individual components of Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride), have been evaluated in a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, parallel group trial (the Combination with Alpha-Blocker Therapy, or CombAT, trial). Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared with rates in the clinical trial of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
- The most common adverse reactions reported in subjects receiving coadministered dutasteride and tamsulosin were impotence, decreased libido, breast disorders (including breast enlargement and tenderness), ejaculation disorders, and dizziness. Ejaculation disorders occurred significantly more in subjects receiving coadministration therapy (11%) compared with those receiving dutasteride (2%) or tamsulosin (4%) as monotherapy.
- Trial withdrawal due to adverse reactions occurred in 6% of subjects receiving coadministered dutasteride and tamsulosin and in 4% of subjects receiving dutasteride or tamsulosin as monotherapy. The most common adverse reaction in all treatment arms leading to trial withdrawal was erectile dysfunction (1% to 1.5%).
In the CombAT trial, over 4,800 male subjects with BPH were randomly assigned to receive 0.5 mg dutasteride, 0.4 mg tamsulosin hydrochloride, or coadministration therapy (0.5 mg dutasteride and 0.4 mg tamsulosin hydrochloride) administered once daily in a 4-year double-blind trial. Overall, 1,623 subjects received monotherapy with dutasteride; 1,611 subjects received monotherapy with tamsulosin; and 1,610 subjects received coadministration therapy. The population was aged 49 to 88 years (mean age: 66 years) and 88% were white. Table 1 summarizes adverse reactions reported in at least 1% of subjects receiving coadministration therapy and at a higher incidence than subjects receiving either dutasteride or tamsulosin as monotherapy.
Table 1. Adverse Reactions Reported over a 48-Month Period in ≥1% of Subjects and More Frequently in the Coadministration Therapy Group than the Dutasteride or Tamsulosin Monotherapy Group (CombAT) by Time of Onset
| Adverse Reaction | Adverse Reaction Time of Onset | ||||
| Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4 | ||
| Months 0-6 | Months 7-12 | ||||
| Coadministrationa | (n = 1,610) | (n = 1,527) | (n = 1,428) | (n = 1,283) | (n = 1,200) |
| Dutasteride | (n = 1,623) | (n = 1,548) | (n = 1,464) | (n = 1,325) | (n = 1,200) |
| Tamsulosin | (n = 1,611) | (n = 1,545) | (n = 1,468) | (n = 1,281) | (n = 1,112) |
| Ejaculation disordersb,c | |||||
| Coadministration | 7.8% | 1.6% | 1.0% | 0.5% | <0.1% |
| Dutasteride | 1.0% | 0.5% | 0.5% | 0.2% | 0.3% |
| Tamsulosin | 2.2% | 0.5% | 0.5% | 0.2% | 0.3% |
| Impotencec,d | |||||
| Coadministration | 5.4% | 1.1% | 1.8% | 0.9% | 0.4% |
| Dutasteride | 4.0% | 1.1% | 1.6% | 0.6% | 0.3% |
| Tamsulosin | 2.6% | 0.8% | 1.0% | 0.6% | 1.1% |
| Decreased libidoc,e | |||||
| Coadministration | 4.5% | 0.9% | 0.8% | 0.2% | 0.0% |
| Dutasteride | 3.1% | 0.7% | 1.0% | 0.2% | 0.0% |
| Tamsulosin | 2.0% | 0.6% | 0.7% | 0.2% | <0.1% |
| Breast disordersf | |||||
| Coadministration | 1.1% | 1.1% | 0.8% | 0.9% | 0.6% |
| Dutasteride | 0.9% | 0.9% | 1.2% | 0.5% | 0.7% |
| Tamsulosin | 0.4% | 0.4% | 0.4% | 0.2% | 0.0% |
| Dizziness | |||||
| Coadministration | 1.1% | 0.4% | 0.1% | <0.1% | 0.2% |
| Dutasteride | 0.5% | 0.3% | 0.1% | <0.1% | <0.1% |
| Tamsulosin | 0.9% | 0.5% | 0.4% | <0.1% | 0.0% |
| a Coadministration = AVODART® 0.5 mg once daily plus tamsulosin 0.4 mg once daily. b Includes anorgasmia, retrograde ejaculation, semen volume decreased, orgasmic sensation decreased, orgasm abnormal, ejaculation delayed, ejaculation disorder, ejaculation failure, and premature ejaculation. c These sexual adverse reactions are associated with dutasteride treatment (including monotherapy and combination with tamsulosin). These adverse reactions may persist after treatment discontinuation. The role of dutasteride in this persistence is unknown. d Includes erectile dysfunction and disturbance in sexual arousal. e Includes libido decreased, libido disorder, loss of libido, sexual dysfunction, and male sexual dysfunction. f Includes breast enlargement, gynecomastia, breast swelling, breast pain, breast tenderness, nipple pain, and nipple swelling. | |||||
Cardiac Failure
In CombAT, after 4 years of treatment, the incidence of the composite term cardiac failure in the coadministration group (12/1,610; 0.7%) was higher than in either monotherapy group: dutasteride, 2/1,623 (0.1%) and tamsulosin, 9/1,611 (0.6%). Composite cardiac failure was also examined in a separate 4-year placebo-controlled trial evaluating dutasteride in men at risk for development of prostate cancer. The incidence of cardiac failure in subjects taking dutasteride was 0.6% (26/4,105) compared with 0.4% (15/4,126) in subjects on placebo. A majority of subjects with cardiac failure in both trials had comorbidities associated with an increased risk of cardiac failure. Therefore, the clinical significance of the numerical imbalances in cardiac failure is unknown. No causal relationship between dutasteride alone or coadministered with tamsulosin and cardiac failure has been established. No imbalance was observed in the incidence of overall cardiovascular adverse events in either trial.
Additional information regarding adverse reactions in placebo-controlled trials with dutasteride or tamsulosin monotherapy follows.
Dutasteride
Long-term Treatment (Up to 4 Years)
High-grade Prostate Cancer: The REDUCE trial was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial that enrolled 8,231 men aged 50 to 75 years with a serum PSA of 2.5 ng/mL to 10 ng/mL and a negative prostate biopsy within the previous 6 months. Subjects were randomized to receive placebo (n = 4,126) or 0.5-mg daily doses of dutasteride (n = 4,105) for up to 4 years. The mean age was 63 years and 91% were white. Subjects underwent protocol-mandated scheduled prostate biopsies at 2 and 4 years of treatment or had “for-cause biopsies” at non-scheduled times if clinically indicated. There was a higher incidence of Gleason score 8 to 10 prostate cancer in men receiving dutasteride (1.0%) compared with men on placebo (0.5%). In a 7-year placebo-controlled clinical trial with another 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor (finasteride 5 mg, PROSCAR), similar results for Gleason score 8 to 10 prostate cancer were observed (finasteride 1.8% versus placebo 1.1%).
No clinical benefit has been demonstrated in patients with prostate cancer treated with dutasteride.
Reproductive And Breast Disorders
In the 3 pivotal placebo-controlled BPH trials with dutasteride, each 4 years in duration, there was no evidence of increased sexual adverse reactions (impotence, decreased libido, and ejaculation disorder) or breast disorders with increased duration of treatment. Among these 3 trials, there was 1 case of breast cancer in the dutasteride group and 1 case in the placebo group. No cases of breast cancer were reported in any treatment group in the 4-year CombAT trial or the 4-year REDUCE trial.
The relationship between long-term use of dutasteride and male breast neoplasia is currently unknown.
Tamsulosin
According to the tamsulosin prescribing information, in two 13-week treatment trials with tamsulosin monotherapy, adverse reactions occurring in at least 2% of subjects receiving 0.4 mg tamsulosin hydrochloride and at an incidence higher than in subjects receiving placebo were: infection, asthenia, back pain, chest pain, somnolence, insomnia, rhinitis, pharyngitis, cough increased, sinusitis, and diarrhea.
Signs and Symptoms of Orthostasis
According to the tamsulosin prescribing information, in clinical trials with tamsulosin monotherapy, a positive orthostatic test result was observed in 16% (81/502) of subjects receiving 0.4 mg tamsulosin hydrochloride versus 11% (54/493) of subjects receiving placebo. Because orthostasis was detected more frequently in the tamsulosin-treated subjects than in placebo recipients, there is a potential risk of syncope.
Postmarketing Experience
The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of the individual components of Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride). Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. These reactions have been chosen for inclusion due to a combination of their seriousness, frequency of reporting, or potential causal connection to drug exposure.
Dutasteride
Immune System Disorders: Hypersensitivity reactions, including rash, pruritus, urticaria, localized edema, serious skin reactions, and angioedema.
Neoplasms: Male breast cancer.
Psychiatric Disorders: Depressed mood.
Reproductive System and Breast Disorders: Testicular pain and testicular swelling.
Tamsulosin
Immune System Disorders: Hypersensitivity reactions, including rash, urticaria, pruritus, angioedema, and respiratory problems have been reported with positive rechallenge in some cases.
Cardiac Disorders: Palpitations, dyspnea, atrial fibrillation, arrhythmia, and tachycardia.
Skin Disorders: Skin desquamation, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, erythema multiforme, dermatitis exfoliative.
Gastrointestinal Disorders: Constipation, vomiting, dry mouth.
Reproductive System and Breast Disorders: Priapism. Respiratory: Epistaxis.
Vascular Disorders: Hypotension.
Ophthalmologic Disorders: Blurred vision, visual impairment. During cataract and glaucoma surgery, a variant of small pupil syndrome known as Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome (IFIS) associated with alpha–adrenergic–antagonist therapy.
No data are available with regard to overdosage with Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride). The following text reflects information available for the individual components.
Dutasteride
In volunteer trials, single doses of dutasteride up to 40 mg (80 times the therapeutic dose) for 7 days have been administered without significant safety concerns. In a clinical trial, daily doses of 5 mg (10 times the therapeutic dose) were administered to 60 subjects for 6 months with no additional adverse effects to those seen at therapeutic doses of 0.5 mg.
There is no specific antidote for dutasteride. Therefore, in cases of suspected overdosage symptomatic and supportive treatment should be given as appropriate, taking the long half-life of dutasteride into consideration.
Tamsulosin
Should overdosage of tamsulosin lead to hypotension , support of the cardiovascular system is of first importance. Restoration of blood pressure and normalization of heart rate may be accomplished by keeping the patient in the supine position. If this measure is inadequate, then administration of intravenous fluids should be considered. If necessary, vasopressors should then be used and renal function should be monitored and supported as needed. Laboratory data indicate that tamsulosin is 94% to 99% protein bound; therefore, dialysis is unlikely to be of benefit.
Dutasteride
Effect on 5 Alpha-Dihydrotestosterone and Testosterone
The maximum effect of daily doses of dutasteride on the reduction of DHT is dose-dependent and is observed within 1 to 2 weeks. After 1 and 2 weeks of daily dosing with dutasteride 0.5 mg, median serum DHT concentrations were reduced by 85% and 90%, respectively. In patients with BPH treated with dutasteride 0.5 mg/day for 4 years, the median decrease in serum DHT was 94% at 1 year, 93% at 2 years, and 95% at both 3 and 4 years. The median increase in serum testosterone was 19% at both 1 and 2 years, 26% at 3 years, and 22% at 4 years, but the mean and median levels remained within the physiologic range.
In patients with BPH treated with 5 mg/day of dutasteride or placebo for up to 12 weeks prior to transurethral resection of the prostate, mean DHT concentrations in prostatic tissue were significantly lower in the dutasteride group compared with placebo (784 and 5,793 pg/g, respectively,P<0.001). Mean prostatic tissue concentrations of testosterone were significantly higher in the dutasteride group compared with placebo (2,073 and 93 pg/g, respectively,P<0.001).
Adult males with genetically inherited type 2 5-alpha-reductase deficiency also have decreased DHT levels. These 5-alpha-reductase-deficient males have a small prostate gland throughout life and do not develop BPH. Except for the associated urogenital defects present at birth, no other clinical abnormalities related to 5-alpha-reductase deficiency have been observed in these individuals.Effects on Other Hormones
In healthy volunteers, 52 weeks of treatment with dutasteride 0.5 mg/day (n = 26) resulted in no clinically significant change compared with placebo (n = 23) in sex hormone-binding globulin, estradiol, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, thyroxine (free T4), and dehydroepiandrosterone. Statistically significant, baseline-adjusted mean increases compared with placebo were observed for total testosterone at 8 weeks (97.1 ng/dL, P<0.003) and thyroid-stimulating hormone at 52 weeks (0.4 mcIU/mL, P<0.05). The median percentage changes from baseline within the dutasteride group were 17.9% for testosterone at 8 weeks and 12.4% for thyroid-stimulating hormone at 52 weeks. After stopping dutasteride for 24 weeks, the mean levels of testosterone and thyroid-stimulating hormone had returned to baseline in the group of subjects with available data at the visit. In subjects with BPH treated with dutasteride in a large randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, there was a median percent increase in luteinizing hormone of 12% at 6 months and 19% at both 12 and 24 months.
Other Effects
Plasma lipid panel and bone mineral density were evaluated following 52 weeks of dutasteride 0.5 mg once daily in healthy volunteers. There was no change in bone mineral density as measured by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry compared with either placebo or baseline. In addition, the plasma lipid profile (i.e., total cholesterol, low density lipoproteins, high density lipoproteins, and triglycerides) was unaffected by dutasteride. No clinically significant changes in adrenal hormone responses to adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation were observed in a subset population (n = 13) of the 1-year healthy volunteer trial.
The pharmacokinetics of dutasteride and tamsulosin from Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) are comparable to the pharmacokinetics of dutasteride and tamsulosin when administered separately.
Absorption
The pharmacokinetic parameters of dutasteride and tamsulosin observed after administration of Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) in a single-dose, randomized, 3-period, partial cross-over trial are summarized in Table 2 below.
Table 2. Arithmetic Means (SD) of Serum Dutasteride and Tamsulosin in Single-dose Pharmacokinetic Parameters under Fed Conditions
| Component | N | AUC (0-t) (ng h/mL) | Cmax (ng/mL) | Tmax (h)a | t½ (h) |
| Dutasteride | 92 | 39.6 (23.1) | 2.14 (0.77) | 3.00 (1.00-10.00) | |
| Tamsulosin | 92 | 187.2 (95.7) | 11.3 (4.44) | 6.00 (2.00-24.00) | 13.5 (3.92)b |
| a Median (range). b N = 91. |
Dutasteride
Following administration of a single 0.5-mg dose of a soft gelatin capsule, time to peak absolute bioavailability in 5 healthy subjects is approximately 60% (range: 40% to 94%).
Tamsulosin
Absorption of tamsulosin is essentially complete (>90%) following oral administration of 0.4-mg tamsulosin hydrochloride capsules under fasting conditions. Tamsulosin exhibits linear kinetics following single and multiple dosing, with achievement of steady-state concentrations by the fifth day of once-daily dosing.
Effect Of Food
Food does not affect the pharmacokinetics of dutasteride following administration of Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride). However, a mean 30% decrease in tamsulosin Cmax was observed when Duagen (Dutasteride,Tamsulosin Hydrochloride) was administered with food, similar to that seen when tamsulosin monotherapy was administered under fed versus fasting conditions.
Distribution
Dutasteride
Pharmacokinetic data following single and repeat oral doses show that dutasteride has a large volume of distribution (300 to 500 L). Dutasteride is highly bound to plasma albumin (99.0%) and alpha-1 acid glycoprotein (AAG, 96.6%).
In a trial of healthy subjects (n = 26) receiving dutasteride 0.5 mg/day for 12 months, semen dutasteride concentrations averaged 3.4 ng/mL (range: 0.4 to 14 ng/mL) at 12 months and, similar to serum, achieved steady-state concentrations at 6 months. On average, at 12 months 11.5% of serum dutasteride concentrations partitioned into semen.
Tamsulosin
The mean steady-state apparent volume of distribution of tamsulosin after intravenous administration to 10 healthy male adults was 16 L, which is suggestive of distribution into extracellular fluids in the body.
Tamsulosin is extensively bound to human plasma proteins (94% to 99%), primarily AAG, with linear binding over a wide concentration range (20 to 600 ng/mL). The results of 2-way in vitro studies indicate that the binding of tamsulosin to human plasma proteins is not affected by amitriptyline, diclofenac, glyburide, simvastatin plus simvastatin-hydroxy acid metabolite, warfarin, diazepam, or propranolol. Likewise, tamsulosin had no effect on the extent of binding of these drugs.
Metabolism
Dutasteride
Dutasteride is extensively metabolized in humans. In vitro studies showed that dutasteride is metabolized by the CYP3A4 and CYP3A5 isoenzymes. Both of these isoenzymes produced the 4’-hydroxydutasteride, 6-hydroxydutasteride, and the 6,4’-dihydroxydutasteride metabolites. In addition, the 15-hydroxydutasteride metabolite was formed by CYP3A4. Dutasteride is not metabolized in vitro by human cytochrome P450 isoenzymes CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2B6, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP2E1. In human serum following dosing to steady state, unchanged dutasteride, 3 major metabolites (4’-hydroxydutasteride, 1,2-dihydrodutasteride, and 6-hydroxydutasteride), and 2 minor metabolites (6,4’-dihydroxydutasteride and 15-hydroxydutasteride), as assessed by mass spectrometric response, have been detected. The absolute stereochemistry of the hydroxyl additions in the 6 and 15 positions is not known. In vitro, the 4’-hydroxydutasteride and 1,2-dihydrodutasteride metabolites are much less potent than dutasteride against both isoforms of human 5α-reductase. The activity of 6β-hydroxydutasteride is comparable to that of dutasteride.
Tamsulosin
There is no enantiomeric bioconversion from tamsulosin [R(-) isomer] to the S(+) isomer in humans. Tamsulosin is extensively metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes in the liver and less than 10% of the dose is excreted in urine unchanged. However, the pharmacokinetic profile of the metabolites in humans has not been established. In vitro studies indicate that CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 are involved in metabolism of tamsulosin as well as some minor participation of other CYP isoenzymes. Inhibition of hepatic drug-metabolizing enzymes may lead to increased exposure to tamsulosin. The metabolites of tamsulosin undergo extensive conjugation to glucuronide or sulfate prior to renal excretion.
Incubations with human liver microsomes showed no evidence of clinically significant metabolic interactions between tamsulosin and amitriptyline, albuterol, glyburide, and finasteride. However, results of the in vitro testing of the tamsulosin interaction with diclofenac and warfarin were equivocal.
Excretion
Dutasteride
Dutasteride and its metabolites were excreted mainly in feces. As a percent of dose, there was approximately 5% unchanged dutasteride (approximately 1% to approximately 15%) and 40% as dutasteride-related metabolites (approximately 2% to approximately 90%). Only trace amounts of unchanged dutasteride were found in urine (<1%). Therefore, on average, the dose unaccounted for approximated 55% (range: 5% to 97%). The terminal elimination half-life of dutasteride is approximately 5 weeks at steady state. The average steady-state serum dutasteride concentration was 40 ng/mL following 0.5 mg/day for 1 year. Following daily dosing, dutasteride serum concentrations achieve 65% of steady-state concentration after 1 month and approximately 90% after 3 months. Due to the long half-life of dutasteride, serum concentrations remain detectable (greater than 0.1 ng/mL) for up to 4 to 6 months after discontinuation of treatment.
Tamsulosin
On administration of the radiolabeled dose of tamsulosin to 4 healthy volunteers, 97% of the administered radioactivity was recovered, with urine (76%) representing the primary route of excretion compared with feces (21%) over 168 hours.
Following intravenous or oral administration of an immediate-release formulation, the elimination half-life of tamsulosin in plasma ranges from 5 to 7 hours. Because of absorption rate-controlled pharmacokinetics with tamsulosin hydrochloride capsules, the apparent half-life of tamsulosin is approximately 9 to 13 hours in healthy volunteers and 14 to 15 hours in the target population.
Tamsulosin undergoes restrictive clearance in humans, with a relatively low systemic clearance (2.88 L/h).
