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Viagra Eases Symptoms of Prostate Enlargement
Known for improving erectile dysfunction (ED), Viagra® (sildenafil citrate) also effectively treats the prostate and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with prostate enlargement that often occur with ED, a Northwestern study has found. Professor of urology at the Feinberg School, Kevin McVary, MD, presented clinical trial results at a meeting of the Sexual Medicine Society of North America on November 21 in New York.
Dr. McVary and his colleagues conducted a 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of Viagra in men aged 45 years and older. Participants had ED and LUTS associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia, an enlargement of the prostate gland that obstructs the flow of urine through the urethra. Study results showed that men who took Viagra (30 minutes to an hour before anticipated sexual activity) experienced a significant improvement in erectile function, self-esteem, and quality of life, with a concomitant decrease in both the irritative and obstructive symptoms of BPH.
More than half of men over 40 years have difficulties getting or maintaining an erection. More than half of men 50 years and older have some sign of BPH. Studies have shown that more than 70 percent of men with symptoms of BPH also have ED. Results from this clinical trial have important implications with respect to the causes of concomitant prostate symptoms and ED, according to researchers.