Alpha-adrenergic receptor antagonists in older patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia: issues and potential complications.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is highly prevalent in men older than 50 years and is associated with a range of lower urinary tract symptoms that may have a negative impact on patient quality of life. Alpha(1)-adrenergic receptor antagonists are the first-line of pharmacologic management for lower urinary tract symptoms associated with BPH. However, many patients take multiple medications that may exacerbate age-related orthostatic hypotension. Thus, clinicians should evaluate the treatment of these patients within the context of comorbidities. The present article discusses the role of non-subtype-selective and subtype-selective alpha(1)-adrenergic receptor antagonists in the clinical management of BPH. Safety and tolerability for both non-subtype-selective and subtype-selective alpha(1)-adrenergic receptor antagonists for patients with BPH are also reviewed.