Uropharmacology: current and future strategies in the treatment of erectile dysfunction and benign prostate hyperplasia

Because of the increasing percentage of the world male population suffering from erectile dysfunction (ED) and benign prostate syndrome (BPS), there is a need for new and innovative therapeutic approaches. Pharmacotherapyis an avenue presently being followed in the treatment of both these syndromes. A profound change in the therapy of ED has been obtained through use of the selective phosphodiesterase inhibitor sildenafil. The incidence of surgical intervention in BPS has been reduced by the introduction of uroselective α 1 -receptor antagonists and the new 5α-reductase inhibitors (such as finasteride, dutasteride). The investigation of mechanisms in CXC chemokine expression also offers new therapeutic possibilities in these diseases.