Alpha-Blocker Does Not Ease Symptoms of Chronic Prostatitis

21 dec 2008--Alfuzosin, an alpha-adrenergic–receptor blocker, does not improve symptoms in men with chronic prostatitis–chronic pelvic pain syndrome, according to a New England Journal of Medicine study.

Some 270 men who were diagnosed with the condition within the preceding 2 years and had never used an alpha-blocker were randomized to receive alfuzosin or a placebo daily for 12 weeks. By the end of treatment, approximately half of the men in each group had achieved clinically significant reductions in a symptom score measuring pain, voiding problems, and quality of life. Similarly, there were no significant differences between the groups in secondary outcomes, such as anxiety and depression.

The authors note that several meta-analyses have led some researchers to recommend alpha-blockers for chronic prostatitis. They conclude: "Our trial does not support these recommendations and should prompt reconsideration of the choice of initial therapy for these patients."

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NEJM article (Free abstract; full text requires subscription)