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. 2007 Fall;9(4):181-90.

Alpha blockers for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia

Herbert Lepor  1
Affiliations

Alpha blockers for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia

Herbert Lepor. Rev Urol. 2007 Fall.

Abstract

The evolution of alpha blocker therapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) has focused on improving convenience and tolerability. Indications for treating BPH include reversing signs and symptoms or preventing progression of the disease. The indication that most commonly drives the need for intervention is relief of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) with the intent of improving quality of life. Alpha blockers are the most effective, least costly, and best tolerated of the drugs for relieving LUTS. Four long-acting alpha 1 blockers are approved by the Food and Drug Administration for treatment of symptomatic LUTS/BPH: terazosin, doxazosin, tamsulosin, and alfuzosin. All are well tolerated and have comparable dose-dependent effectiveness. Tamsulosin and alfuzosin SR do not require dose titration. Alfuzosin, terazosin, and doxazosin have all been shown to be effective in relieving LUTS/BPH independent of prostate size.

Keywords: Alfuzosin; Alpha blockers; Benign prostatic hyperplasia; Doxazosin; Lower urinary tract symptoms; Quality of life; Tamsulosin; Terazosin.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
The effect of terazosin on lower urinary tract symptoms and peak flow rate relative to placebo. Qmax, peak urinary flow.
Figure 2
Figure 2
The effect of doxazosin on lower urinary tract symptoms and peak flow rate relative to placebo. Qmax, peak urinary flow.
Figure 3
Figure 3
The effect of tamsulosin on lower urinary tract symptoms and peak flow rate relative to placebo. Qmax, peak urinary flow.
Figure 4
Figure 4
The effect of alfuzosin on lower urinary tract symptoms and peak flow rate relative to placebo. Qmax, peak urinary flow.
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