BPH Medications: What You Should Know to Manage Enlarged Prostate

Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, is a common condition where the prostate gland grows bigger as men get older. This growth can cause annoying symptoms, like difficulty peeing, weak urine flow, or needing to go more often—especially at night. Fortunately, there are medications designed to ease these symptoms and improve your quality of life.

How Do BPH Medications Work?

BPH medications mainly help in two ways: by relaxing the muscles around the prostate and bladder neck, which makes it easier to pee, or by shrinking the prostate itself. The most common types you'll hear about are alpha-blockers and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors.

Alpha-blockers, like tamsulosin or alfuzosin, work fast by relaxing muscles, so urine flows more smoothly. They don't shrink the prostate but can provide quick relief. On the other hand, 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, such as finasteride and dutasteride, do take longer—usually a few months—but they actually reduce the size of the prostate over time. Sometimes, doctors prescribe both types together for better results.

What Should You Expect When Taking BPH Medications?

Before starting, know that side effects can happen. Alpha-blockers might cause dizziness or low blood pressure, especially when standing up quickly. Meanwhile, 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors can affect sexual function, causing lower libido or ejaculation changes. These effects don’t happen to everyone and often lessen with time.

Being consistent with your medication and keeping your doctor in the loop about how you feel is important. If symptoms don’t improve or side effects become bothersome, your healthcare provider may adjust the dose or try different options.

Remember, medication is just one part of managing BPH. Lifestyle changes like reducing caffeine and alcohol, avoiding fluids before bedtime, and regular check-ups can also make a big difference.

If you’re wondering which BPH medication might work best for you, your doctor will consider your symptoms, prostate size, and overall health to tailor the treatment. Don’t hesitate to discuss any questions or concerns you have—it’s your health, after all.