[Importance of adrenoceptor blockers and alpha reductase inhibitors : Monotherapy for treatment of benign prostate syndrome].

Medicinal treatment is the primary conservative treatment option for patients with moderate to severe lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Monotherapy with alpha-blockers may be a suitable option for patients with a low risk of progression and with moderate to severe LUTS due to the rapid onset of action. However, alpha-blockers do not have any impact on disease progression and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors (5-ARIs) are not recommended as initial monotherapy due to a slow onset of action. In the medium and long term 5-ARIs have been shown to have a positive effect on symptoms and the maximum flow rate and are also the only substance group to have a positive effect on disease progression. The positive effects of 5-ARIs on prevention of benign prostate syndrome are based on scientific findings but the use is not yet recommended in any guidelines.