Tadalafil may improve lower urinary tract symptoms in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Researchers from Nashville, Dallas, San Antonia and Indianapolis will present these findings during the 104th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Urological Association (AUA).

In this study, researchers randomly separated 200 men, with an age equal to or older than 40 years and at least a six month diagnosis of BPH-LUTS with an International Prostate Symptom Score (IPPS) greater than or equal to 13, into two groups taking either 20 mg of tadalafil once daily or a placebo. After 12 weeks of treatment, the men taking tadalafil experienced improved detrusor pressure at urinary flow rate, peak flow rate (Qmax), bladder capacity, post-void residual volume and bladder voiding efficiency. Relative symptom improvement in the IPSS also was significantly better in the tadalafil group. At the end of the study, the proportion of obstructed patients in the placebo group increased, while the proportion in the tadalafil group decreased.

“Dr. Dmochowski, the study author, and colleagues have added further evidence to the growing body of research that suggests that in addition to their well known effect on erectile dysfunction, PDE-5 inhibitors may be able to help with management of bladder outlet symptoms as well. This is an exciting concept for men’s health,” said Anthony Y. Smith, MD, an AUA spokesman.

NOTE TO REPORTERS: Experts are available to discuss this study outside normal briefing times.

Dmochowski, R; Roehrborn, C; Kraus, S; Klise, S. Changes in bladder outlet obstruction index in men with signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia treated with tadalafil. J Urol, suppl. 2009: 181, 4, abstract 1924.

About the American Urological Association: Founded in 1902 and headquartered near Baltimore, Maryland, the American Urological Association is the pre-eminent professional organization for urologists, with more than 16,000 members throughout the world. An educational nonprofit organization, the AUA pursues its mission of fostering the highest standards of urologic care by carrying out a wide variety of programs for members and their patients.

Source: American Urological Association (AUA)