Medical treatment of the prostate

Medical treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia

Enlarged prostate. Statistics show that more than 50% of men over 50 suffer from this disease, and in men over 70 this figure rises to 90%.

An alarming statistic is that less than 5% of men over 40 consult a specialist about urinary problems. Early detection of benign prostatic hyperplasia is a guarantee of more successful treatment.

The disease is characterized by impaired urination, pain, burning, ineffective emptying of the bladder.

Treatment methods depend on the degree of hyperplasia. In conditions without complaints and mild symptoms, waiting under medical supervision is recommended. Phytotherapy is also recommended at this stage. The most commonly used plant is the Saw Palmetto, an American dwarf palm. The exact mechanism of action has not been elucidated. It is believed that the plant extract reduces the level of dehydroandrosterone, which stimulates the growth of the gland.

Pygenium africanum extract contains triterpenes. It has a proven anti-inflammatory effect, increases the secretion of the prostate and reduces the level of hormones in the gland, thereby reducing hypertrophy. In addition, the elasticity of the bladder increases.

In the case of more severe symptoms, they switch to therapy with alpha-1-blockers. They relax the smooth muscles of the prostate. This opens the neck of the bladder, making it easier and more efficient to empty the bladder. Medicines from this group are Prazosin, Terazosin, Doxazosin, and Tamsulosin.
It is recommended to take it in the evening in a supine position to reduce the risk of a sharp drop in blood pressure and getting sick. Patients may experience dizziness during the first few doses. These drugs are not suitable for people with hypotension and cataracts.
The onset of action can be from several days to several weeks.

The 5-alpha reductase inhibitors are finasteride and dutasteride. They affect the enlargement of the prostate and the progression of the disease. The effect comes more slowly – about 6 months. The best effect is observed in patients with large prostates who cannot undergo surgical treatment or cannot tolerate the side effects of alpha-1-blockers.