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The role of 5-α-reductase inhibition as monotherapy in view of the MTOPS data

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Abstract

Medical treatment for the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) consists of α blockers and 5-α-reductase inhibitors. Data suggest that 5-α-reductase inhibitors can prevent progression of BPH and reduce the risk of BPH-related surgery, especially in men with large-volume prostates. Results from the largest randomized, prospective, placebo-controlled trial, the Medical Therapy of Prostatic Symptoms trial, have been presented. These results support the notion of using 5-α-reductase inhibitors for the prevention of BPH progression and BPH-related surgery. Furthermore, long-term 5-α-reductase inhibitor monotherapy, although slow in onset, is a viable therapy for symptom relief in men with mild to moderate symptoms.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Brady Prostate Center, Department of Urology, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Campus, 535 East 68th Street, 10021, New York, NY, USA

    Jaspreet S. Sandhu MD & Alexis E. Te MD

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  1. Jaspreet S. Sandhu MD
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  2. Alexis E. Te MD
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Sandhu, J.S., Te, A.E. The role of 5-α-reductase inhibition as monotherapy in view of the MTOPS data. Curr Urol Rep 5, 274–279 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11934-004-0050-6

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