In a nutshell
This study investigated the effectiveness of Serenoa repens (American saw palmetto) extract to treat lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). They determined that Serenoa repens extract did not improve LUTS in men with BPH.
Some background
Men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) often experience bothersome urinary symptoms such as nocturia. Recently, Serenoa repens plant extract has been suggested as a possible treatment for urinary symptoms associated with BPH.
Methods & findings
This study analyzed results from 17 clinical reports including 2008 men that investigated treatment using only extracts from serenoa repens. The dose of serenoa repens extract, duration of treatment and urinary symptoms were analyzed.
In all the trials, the effect of serenoa repens was similar to that of a placebo (inactive control treatment). Neither duration of treatment, nor the dose of serenoa repens extract, affected symptoms.
An analysis of nine short-term studies showed a decrease in nocturia episodes by an average of 0.79 voids per night with serenoa repens extract. However, results were inconclusive and another long-term study showed no benefit on nocturia episodes with serenoa repens treatment.
The bottom line
This study concluded that serenoa repens extract does not significantly improve urinary symptoms in men with BPH.
The fine print
There is a lack of standardization in the process for extraction of phytotherapeutics. As a result, the findings of one study may not be directly comparable to another.
Published By :
BJU international
Date :
Jun 01, 2012
