Are all alpha-blockers created equal? An update.
alpha-Receptor blockers, used to treat lower urinary tract symptoms, exert effects on areas of the body other than the prostate where alpha-receptors are located, including the blood vessels and the central nervous system. alpha-Receptors in the central and peripheral nervous system may be involved in bladder activation. alpha(1a)-Receptors are the appropriate target in men with obstructive symptoms, although alpha(1d)-receptors may also be important in patients with irritative symptoms. There is conflicting evidence about the selectivity of alpha-blockers. Clinical trials of these agents do not necessarily reflect results observed in animal and laboratory studies on uroselectivity. The few published comparator studies of alpha-blockers indicate similar efficacies, although side-effect profiles differ somewhat. Randomized, controlled studies of different alpha-blockers with sufficient power to detect differences in side effects between agents are needed.
Roehrborn
Claus G
CG
Department of Urology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, USA.
D000317:Adrenergic alpha-Antagonists / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000145:classification; D000818:Animals; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011469:Prostatic Diseases / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy; D011942:Receptors, Adrenergic, alpha / Q000145:classification / Q000378:metabolism; D015854:Up-Regulation; D014570:Urologic Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology
D000317:Adrenergic alpha-Antagonists; D011942:Receptors, Adrenergic, alpha