Alternative treatment for enlarged prostate shows promise

AORN Journal, August, 2004

Millions of men who suffer from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) (ie, enlarged prostate) may benefit from receiving injections of botutinum toxin A (ie, Botox), according to a May 11, 2004, news release from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh. In a study conducted by the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan, 11 patients between the ages of 50 and 82 who were symptomatic for BPH received Botox injections into their prostates. Three to seven days after injection, the patients had decreased irritative symptoms. Patients also experienced a significant increase in flow rate and a small decrease in residual urine and prostate size. In addition, patients did not experience any significant side effects.

Botox Helps Ease Symptoms of Enlarged Prostate (news release, Son Francisco: University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, May 11, 2004).