Naftopidil in the management of benign prostatic hyperplasia, "Beyond the Abstract," by Noboru Hara, MD, PhD

BERKELEY, CA (UroToday.com) - Naftopidil, which to a certain extent shows an affinity to α1D-adrenoceptor subtype in addition to a high affinity to α1A-adrenoceptor, has been used for the treatment of benign prostatic obstruction and benign prostatic hyperplasia-associated lower urinary tract symptoms, but this agent has been approved only in a few countries, including Japan. In addition to English literature, we referred to studies published in the Japanese language; many clinical trials on naftopidil were conducted in Japan. Thus, one of the advantages of this systematical review is to provide all the main observations and results of these studies, translated into English. Also, the full-text article is available free-of-charge at the PMC website

The α1A-antagonist naftopidil, which also blocks the α1D adrenoceptor, improves voiding symptoms, and is possibly effective in treating men with BPH-associated storage symptoms represented by nocturia. Previous studies suggested that the α1D-adrenoceptor subtype and the antagonism thereof might play a role in the regulation of bladder function and the relief of storage symptoms, respectively, although further clinical certifications are required.

Written by:
Noboru Hara, MD, PhD as part of Beyond the Abstract on UroToday.com. This initiative offers a method of publishing for the professional urology community. Authors are given an opportunity to expand on the circumstances, limitations etc... of their research by referencing the published abstract.

Division of Urology, Department of Regenerative and Transplant Medicine, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Asahimachi 1, Niigata 951-8510, Japan

The role of naftopidil in the management of benign prostatic hyperplasia - Abstract

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