Prostate :: Vardenafil in the treatment of symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia

The role of nitric oxide (NO) in the mechanism of erection is well known in the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED).

However, studies have also suggested a connection between the NO pathway in bladder and prostate smooth muscle regulation ? which may benefit benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) patients.

In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, German researchers in Munich, Hamburg and Wuppertal tested the efficacy of vardenafil, a common PDE-5 inhibitor) in treating lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in men with BPH.

The study was conducted in men with LUTS (defined as an International Prostate Symptom Score greater than or equal to 12) ranging from 45-64 years in age. Subjects in the active study group were given 10 mg vardenafil twice daily for eight weeks; the control arm received placebo for that period. Evaluation was performed using the IPSS and the UROLIFE QoL 9.

Investigators show that treatment with vardenafil resulted in an improved total IPSS score compared to placebo, as well as improvements in the sub-scores for obstruction and irritation. UROLIFE QoL scores were significantly increased in the vardenafil group, particularly in the perceived sexual life and interference with activities sub-scores.


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