Alpha-blockers in the treatment of benign prostatic hypertrophy: physiological basis and review of the problem.

After reviewing the pharmacological and physiological basis for the treatment of benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) symptoms with alpha 1-adrenergic blockers, the authors analyze the clinical trials published in the literature. The indications, doses, side effects and contraindications for the alpha 1 blockers in the treatment of BPH are summarized.