Beta-Sitosterol. Beta-sitosterol preparations come from South African star grass, Hypoxis rooperi, and other plant species. Some studies have shown beta-sitosterol to improve urinary symptoms and flow. They may increase the risk for impotence, however.
Pygeum Africanum.Pygeum Africanum is an extract from the bark of an African plum tree. In an analysis of 18 trials, the herb provided a moderate improvement in urinary symptoms compared to placebo. Side effects were mild. The studies were short in length, however.
Cernilton. Cernilton is prepared from rye grass pollen. Studies have been limited, but some suggest it may help improve symptoms, including nighttime urinary problems. Other studies have found no benefit.
Other popular herbs include nettle root extract (Urtica dioica) and pumpkin seed oil (Cucurbita peponis ). There is no scientific evidence that any of these remedies help treat BPH.
Herbs and SupplementsGenerally, manufacturers of herbal remedies and dietary supplements do not need FDA approval to sell their products. Just like a drug, herbs and supplements can affect the body's chemistry, and therefore have the potential to produce side effects that may be harmful. There have been several reported cases of serious and even lethal side effects from herbal products. Patients should check with their doctor before using any herbal remedies or dietary supplements. |
Investigational Drugs
Botulinum. Botulinum toxin A (Botox) injections, a common wrinkle treatment, cause small muscles to relax. This approach is now being investigated for treating many disorders that involve overexcited muscle activity, including benign prostatic hyperplasia. Preliminary studies are showing promising results in improving urine flow and reducing urinary retention.
PDE5 Inhibitors. Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors can treat erectile dysfunction (ED). They include sildenafil (Viagra), vardenafil (Levitra), and tadalafil (Cialis). Because lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and ED often occur together in older men, researchers are investigating whether PDE5 inhibitors may help improve BPH symptoms. Research presented at the 2006 American Urological Association meeting suggested that sildenafil improves urinary symptoms in men who have both ED and LUTS. Another study indicated that a combination of sildenafil and the alpha-blocker alfusozin (Uroxatral) worked better for treating LUTS and ED than either drug alone.
Other Areas of Investigation. Researchers are looking at several different drugs for future BPH therapies. Most drugs being researched for BPH, such as arylpiperazines, target molecules in the prostate that may help suppress cell growth. Some efforts are focusing on drugs that affect the central nervous system or nerve fibers in the bladder and urethra to reduce urinary tract symptoms.
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