Sexual Dysfunctions Related to Drugs Used in the Management of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Due to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Narrative Review on α-Blockers and 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors

Abstract

This is a critical review of the current literature data about sexual dysfunction as a potential side effect related to drugs commonly used for the treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms. In this narrative review, we analyzed data from the literature related to the development of sexual dysfunctions during the treatment of BPH or LUTS. Both α-blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (5-ARIs) can induce erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory disorders and a reduction in sexual desire. The sexual side effect profile of these drugs is different. Among the α-blockers, silodosin appears to have the highest incidence of ejaculatory disorders. Persistent sexual side effects after the discontinuation of finasteride have been recently reported; however, further studies are needed to clarify the true incidence and the significance of this finding. However, most of the published studies are affected by a weak methodology and other important limitations, with only a few RCTs available. Therefore, it is desirable that future studies will include validated tools to assess and diagnose the sexual dysfunction induced by these medications, especially for ejaculation and sexual desire disorders.

Investigating how tamsulosin combined with levofloxacin impacts wound healing in patients with chronic prostatitis who may also have perineal or urethral wounds

“…2,3 It is of the utmost importance that these wounds recover promptly, as failure to do so may result in critical complications that worsen the patient's quality of life. 4,5 Tamsulosin, an alpha-blocker, is frequently prescribed for the purpose of mitigating urinary symptoms related to prostatic hyperplasia through the relaxation of the prostate and bladder neck muscles. 6 Conversely, broad-spectrum antibiotic levofloxacin is employed due to its effectiveness against a diverse array of bacterial infections, a factor that may prove to be of utmost importance in the management of wounds.…”

“…Perineal or urethral wounds may also develop in specific patients, thereby augmenting the intricacy of the treatment and management process 2,3 . It is of the utmost importance that these wounds recover promptly, as failure to do so may result in critical complications that worsen the patient's quality of life 4,5 …”

“…2 , 3 It is of the utmost importance that these wounds recover promptly, as failure to do so may result in critical complications that worsen the patient's quality of life. 4 , 5 …”