Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BHP) Medications

Why Consider Medications for BPH Treatment?

Medications for BPH treatment provide an effective, non-surgical option to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.

While some cases of BPH may require procedures like prostate artery embolization (PAE), many men find that medications help manage symptoms effectively with minimal side effects.

Types of BHP Medications

Various medications are available to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia, each working differently to reduce symptoms. Your healthcare provider will recommend the best option based on your condition, symptoms, and medical history.

Alpha-Blockers

Alpha-blockers, such as tamsulosin (Flomax) and alfuzosin (Uroxatral), relax the prostate and bladder neck muscles, making urinating easier. These medications provide quick symptom relief but do not shrink the prostate.

5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors

Medications like finasteride (Proscar) and dutasteride (Avodart) reduce prostate size by blocking the hormone responsible for prostate growth. These drugs may take several months to show results but effectively prevent BPH symptom progression.

Anticholinergics

Anticholinergic medications, such as oxybutynin and tolterodine, help manage bladder overactivity and reduce urinary urgency, frequency, and incontinence associated with BPH.

Beta-3 Agonists

Drugs like mirabegron (Myrbetriq) relax the bladder muscle, increase storage capacity, and reduce sudden urges to urinate. They are often used when bladder symptoms are prominent.

Phosphodiesterase-5 Inhibitors

Tadalafil (Cialis), commonly used for erectile dysfunction, is also effective in treating BPH symptoms by relaxing the prostate and bladder muscles, improving urine flow.

Combination Therapies

In some cases, a combination of medications, such as an alpha-blocker and a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, may be prescribed for greater symptom control. Combination therapy can be particularly beneficial for men with larger prostates or more severe symptoms.

How Do BPH Medications Work?

BPH medications work by either relaxing the muscles of the prostate and bladder to improve urine flow or reducing prostate size to prevent further urinary obstruction.

The effectiveness of these medications depends on factors such as symptom severity, prostate size, and individual response to treatment.

Some medications provide rapid relief, while others take longer to show noticeable improvements.

Side Effects and Risks of BPH Medications

While BPH medications are generally safe, they may cause side effects, including:

• Dizziness or low blood pressure (alpha-blockers)
• Reduced libido or erectile dysfunction (5-alpha reductase inhibitors)
• Dry mouth or constipation (anticholinergics)
• Headaches or nasal congestion (phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors)
• Urinary retention in rare cases

It is important to discuss potential side effects with your doctor and weigh the benefits against any risks.

How to Treat BPH with Medications

If you are experiencing BPH symptoms, medications can be an effective first-line treatment. To determine the best medication for your condition:

1. Schedule a consultation with a urologist.
2. Discuss your symptoms and undergo necessary tests to assess prostate size and urinary function.
3. Follow your prescribed treatment plan and monitor for symptom improvement.
4. Report any side effects to your doctor for potential adjustments in medication.

Visit Texas Prostate Institute for BPH Treatment

At Texas Prostate Institute, we specialize in advanced, patient-centered treatments for BPH, including medication management and minimally invasive procedures like PAE.

If you or someone you love are seeking relief from BPH symptoms, contact our expert team today. With locations across Texas, we are here to help you explore options and regain control of your urinary health.