Pharmacological Therapy of Benign Prostate Syndrome (BPS)
September 2006
in “
Aktuelle Urologie
”
Studysummary This review discusses the drug treatment of benign prostatic syndrome, highlighting the efficacy of combination therapies over monotherapies in patients at high risk for disease progression, but notes increased side effects and costs.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
The document reviewed drug therapies for benign prostatic syndrome (BPS), focusing on α1-receptor blockers (alfuzosin, doxazosin, tamsulosin, terazosin) and 5α-reductase inhibitors (dutasteride, finasteride), as well as their combinations. It was noted that α1-receptor blockers provided rapid symptom relief and were slightly more effective than 5α-reductase inhibitors, which were effective in reducing prostate volume-dependent complications. Long-term studies showed that combination therapies were superior to monotherapies for patients at high risk of progression, despite increased side effects and costs. The use of plant extracts lacked evidence, and anticholinergic substances were still under investigation. The importance of early decision-making between drug and surgical treatment was emphasized.
