In a nutshell
This study aimed to investigate the effects of silodosin (Rapaflo) on sexual function in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The main finding was that silodosin improved erectile function for most participants.
Some background
Sexual dysfunction is a common side effect of BPH (enlarged prostate gland). This may include erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation. Silodosin is a drug commonly used to treat the lower urinary tract symptoms of BPH. Few studies to date have focused on the effects of silodosin on sexual function.
Methods & findings
This study included 187 men receiving daily treatment with silodosin for BPH for 3 months. The International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS; a questionnaire for diagnosing and tracking symptoms of BPH), premature ejaculation, sexual health, and the estimated time to intravaginal ejaculation were evaluated.
98 patients completed the study. 7 patients withdrew from the study due to side effects already known about silodosin. IPSS and quality of life were improved as a result of silodosin treatment. At 1 and 3 months of treatment, the estimated time to intravaginal ejaculation had improved. After 3 months of treatment, 50% of patients reported anejaculation (inability to ejaculate). However, 24.4% of patients reported improvements in erectile function.
The bottom line
The main finding of this study was that silodosin improved quality of life, estimated time to intravaginal ejaculation, and overall sexual function for men with BPH.
The fine print
Although 187 patients were recruited to the study, 67 patients dropped out. This may have limited the researcher’s ability to analyze the data. This may mean that the results are not applicable to a larger patient population.
What’s next?
If you have questions about the treatment of sexual function in BPH, please consult your doctor.
Published By :
The journal of sexual medicine
Date :
Mar 23, 2020
