THE TREATMENT WITH ALPHA BLOCKERS AND THEIR EFFECTS ON SEXUAL FUNCTION IN BPH

Abstract

Introduction: Alpha blockers are frequently used as medical therapy for LUTS (Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms). Although the selectivity and pharmacokinetics of alpha blockers are being developed, the clinical effects are found to be similar. The differences of alpha blockers are due to their side effects; alfuzosin ER (XL), doxazosin GITS (XL) and tamsulosin are preferred to other alpha blockers as they have lesser cardiovascular side effects. Recently, in patients with BPH the sexual function and sexual preservation has gain importance and the side effects of alpha blockers has been studied. According to the studies alpha blockers have favorable effects on erectile function but they also decrease the ejaculatory potential. The negative effects on ejaculation are pronounced on pharmacologic selective alpha blocker.