Avodart (dutasteride), a widely prescribed drug to treat enlarged prostate may also slow the progression of early stage prostate cancers in men, according to a study published online Monday in the Lancet.

In a three-year study, prostate cancer progressed in 38 percent of 144 men were treated with Avodart in early stage of prostate cancer and 48 percent of the 145 men who received a placebo. In addition, men were studied for anxiety related to prostate cancer and prostate cancer treatment. The results also showed men with Avodart seem less anxious about the cancer diagnosis.

It’s very good news for men who have low-risk prostate cancer because aggressive treatment, such as surgery and radiation, “can have a major impact on their quality of life, with risks of impotence and incontinence,” said Dr. Neil Fleshner, head of the urology division at Toronto’s University Health Nework (UHN), who led the study.

A British doctor also commented the study duration was very short compared with the natural history of prostate cancer. Long-term outcomes remain unknown.

The Canadian Cancer Society estimates 25,000 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed this year and that 4,100 men will diet from this disease. Many of these cases are considered as low grade disease.

The drug, dutasteride, works by lowering a hormone called DHT (dihydrotestosterone) that is the main cause of prostate enlargement in men. The most common side effects are erectile dysfunction or impotence, decreased libido, breast enlargement or tenderness. Buy Avodart online from leading Canada pharmacy Big Mountain Drugs, a valid prescription is required.