Public Health and Primary CareREVIEW ARTICLE

Alpha-Adrenergic Receptor Antagonists in Older Patients With Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: Issues and Potential Complications

Shari R. Fine, DO, and Phillip Ginsberg, DO, JD
Notes and Affiliations
Notes and Affiliations

Received: August 20, 2007

Accepted: November 19, 2007

Published: July 1, 2008

J Osteopath Med; 108(7): 333-337
Abstract

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is highly prevalent in men older than 50 years and is associated with a range of lower urinary tract symptoms that may have a negative impact on patient quality of life. Alpha1-adrenergic receptor antagonists are the first-line of pharmacologic management for lower urinary tract symptoms associated with BPH. However, many patients take multiple medications that may exacerbate age-related orthostatic hypotension. Thus, clinicians should evaluate the treatment of these patients within the context of comorbidities. The present article discusses the role of non–subtype-selective and subtype-selective α1-adrenergic receptor antagonists in the clinical management of BPH. Safety and tolerability for both non–subtype-selective and subtype-selective α1-adrenergic receptor antagonists for patients with BPH are also reviewed.

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