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Medical therapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia: sexual dysfunction and impact on quality of life

International Journal of Impotence Research volume 15, pages 299–306 (2003)Cite this article

Abstract

Therapies for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) may either improve or exacerbate sexual function with an ensuing impact on quality of life. Here we review a total of 73 papers on medical therapies for BPH with a focus on the effects of different pharmacological agents on sexual function. For example, certain α1-adrenergic receptor blockers may improve erectile function; however, ejaculatory dysfunction with one of these agents, tamsulosin, occurs at a rate of 4–18%, rising to 30% with long-term use. In addition, treatment with the 5α-reductase inhibitor finasteride is associated with problems of ejaculation (2.1–7.7%), erection (4.9–15.8%), and libido (3.1–5.4%). Such significant and undesirable complications in relation to sexual function produce a well-documented negative impact on quality of life. Thus, optimal treatment for men with BPH requires the use of agents that demonstrate efficacy and safety with fewer sexual side effects.

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  1. Department of Urology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA

    DJ Carbone Jr & S Hodges

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Carbone, D., Hodges, S. Medical therapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia: sexual dysfunction and impact on quality of life. Int J Impot Res 15, 299–306 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.ijir.3901017

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