Silodosin as second-line α-blocker monotherapy in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia: A prospective observational study

ObjectiveTo assess the efficacy of silodosin as second-line -blocker monotherapy in patients with lower urinary tract symptoms as a result of benign prostatic hyperplasia. MethodsMen who were given an -blocker other than silodosin for 8 weeks, aged 50 years, had a total International Prostate Symptom Score 13 and quality of life index 4 were enrolled. After treatment with 8 mg/day silodosin for 8 weeks, symptoms and treatment satisfaction were assessed. If the patients still complained and hoped for readministration of the first-line -blocker, the previous medication was administered again for 8 weeks in the case of persisting symptoms, and efficacy was again evaluated. ResultsA total of 73 patients were enrolled and analyzed at 8 weeks. Silodosin administration significantly improved the International Prostate Symptom Score and Overactive Bladder Symptom Score. The quality of life index was improved by at least 1 point in 49.3% patients, and its mean change was significantly greater in the group with previous naftopidil treatment than in those with tamsulosin. A total of 59 patients hoped to continue silodosin, and 13 requested administration of the first-line -blocker. Previously taking naftopidil and having a shorter duration of prior -blocker treatment at baseline were associated with silodosin continuation. Although prior -blocker readministration in the 13 patients did not show significant efficacy, six preferred to continue the previous -blocker. ConclusionsSilodosin represents an effective second-line -blocker monotherapy, even in those who still have moderate lower urinary tract symptoms.