ABSTRACT

Both benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) that manifested with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and erectile dysfunction (ED) are common health problems reducing quality of life in aging males. It has presumed that phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors which are primarily used in the treatment of ED may have therapeutic effects on BPH because of possible common pathophysiology between BPH and ED. There are many recent studies relevant to the this issue. Especially, after the FDA approval of tadalafil in the treatment of BPH, it has been entered to our daily practice as monotherapy or in combination with α-blocker drugs. PDE5 inhibitors may be preferred as a first line treatment option in patients who suffer both BPH and ED simultaneously, however, it is possible to use in patients with BPH only. Younger patients with low body mass index and with severe LUTS have more benefit with PDE5 inhibitor therapy. Flushing, gastroesophageal reflux, headache, and dyspepsia are the most frequently reported adverse effects of PDE5 inhibitors. These adverse effects are mild to moderate, and require the therapy to be discontinued in a small portion of patients. In this review, it is aimed to evaluate the use of PDE5 inhibitors in the treatment of BPH with the current literatures.