What are the effects of tadalafil on benign prostatic hyperplasia and chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome?

This study investigated the effects of tadalafil (Cialis) on patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS). The main finding was that tadalafil improved CP/CPPS in these patients.

CP/CPPS is lower abdominal pain usually in the pelvis or groin region. It is caused by inflammation in the prostate. Patients with BPH often experience CP/CPPS. Tadalafil is approved for the treatment of BPH. It works by relaxing the blood vessels in the bladder, prostate, and penis. This leads to better blood flow to these organs.

Common treatments for CP/CPPS are not effective for many patients. Therefore, it is important to investigate whether tadalafil is an effective treatment for CP/CPPS.

This study included 74 men with moderate or severe BPH. CP/CPPS was evaluated using standard questionnaires. Participants took 5 mg tadalafil orally every morning for 12 weeks. The symptoms of participants with high and low levels of pain were compared.

Before treatment 24 patients (32.4%) experienced high levels of pain and 50 patients (67.6%) experienced low levels of pain. International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) which measures the severity of lower urinary tract symptoms was improved by tadalafil in those with high pain levels. Quality of life and overactive bladder symptoms were also improved by tadalafil. The decrease in IPSS following tadalafil treatment in the group with high pain levels was greater than that in the group with a low pain levels. The maximum urinary flow rate was not improved by treatment.

The main finding was that tadalafil caused a greater improvement in the symptoms of CP/CPPS in patients with BPH and high levels of pain.  

This study included only a small patient population. Further, larger studies are needed for stronger evidence.

If you have questions about the treatment of BPH or CP/CPPS, please consult a doctor.