From the FDA Drug Label
The efficacy and safety of tadalafil for once daily use for the treatment of the signs and symptoms of BPH was evaluated in 3 randomized, multinational, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, parallel-design, efficacy and safety studies of 12 weeks duration The primary efficacy endpoint in the two studies that evaluated the effect of tadalafil for the signs and symptoms of BPH was the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), a four week recall questionnaire that was administered at the beginning and end of a placebo run-in period and subsequently at follow-up visits after randomization The IPSS assesses the severity of irritative (frequency, urgency, nocturia) and obstructive symptoms (incomplete emptying, stopping and starting, weak stream, and pushing or straining), with scores ranging from 0 to 35; higher numeric scores representing greater severity
Tadalafil does help treat the symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), which include urinary retention. The International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) was used to assess the severity of symptoms, and tadalafil resulted in statistically significant improvement in the total IPSS compared to placebo 1. However, it is essential to note that tadalafil may not completely eliminate urinary retention in all patients, and individual results may vary.
- Key points:
- Tadalafil is indicated for the treatment of the signs and symptoms of BPH 1
- Tadalafil has been shown to improve IPSS scores in patients with BPH 1
- Tadalafil may help alleviate symptoms of urinary retention associated with BPH
- Patients should consult their healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for their specific condition.
From the Research
Tadalafil is an effective treatment for urinary retention in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), with the FDA-approved dose being 5 mg once daily. The medication works by relaxing smooth muscle in the prostate and bladder through inhibition of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), which increases cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) levels, improving urine flow and reducing symptoms like hesitancy, weak stream, straining, and incomplete emptying 2. Key benefits of tadalafil include:
- Improvement in urinary symptoms typically begins within 1-2 weeks, with maximum benefit achieved by 4-6 weeks of treatment
- Additional benefit of treating erectile dysfunction when present alongside BPH symptoms
- Common side effects include headache, back pain, muscle aches, and indigestion, which often diminish with continued use
- Tadalafil is contraindicated with nitrate medications and requires dose adjustment in renal impairment 3, 2. Overall, tadalafil is a safe and effective treatment option for patients with BPH, offering improved urinary symptoms and quality of life 4, 2.