What is the difference between finasteride and dutasteride for bph management?

5-alpha reductase : Similar drugs from the same class (5-alpha reductase inhibitors) cause shrinkage of prostate glandular tissue over time. Finasteride is now generic (previously proscar), while Avodart (dutasteride) is not.

Avodart (dutasteride) more potent: Avodart (dutasteride) effects can be seen fairly quickly, and it has always been the "new and improved" choice in the prostate enlargement size-reduction arena. Maintenance therapy on this medication can be effective enough to allow you to avoid a prostate roto-rooter surgery!

Bph: None really, but if diagnosed properly when symptoms first appear, 5-alpha reductase medications (finasteride or avodart) can result in significant shrinkage of the prostate and therefore to some degree halt or reverse the process causing symptoms. Avodart (dutasteride) has a much longer half life and may be a better choice if you tend to miss days of taking your meds.