Alpha-1-adrenoceptor blockade in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia

In light of the growing interest in the concept of 'uroselectivity' and in the increased worldwide use of alpha-blockers for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), this review evaluates the relative benefits of various alpha-blocking agents in the treatment of BPH. The pharmacological and physiological selectivity as well as the clinical efficacy and safety of alfuzosin, doxazosin (Cardura®), tamsulosin (Flomax®), and terazosin (Hytrin®) are compared. In reviewing efficacy and safety, emphasis is given to 17 placebo-controlled, double-blind trials of these alpha-blockers published in peer-reviewed journals. This review also considers long-term data, effects on blood pressure, costs, and dose ranges.