Profile of doxazosin in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Alpha adrenergic receptors in prostatic smooth muscle play a major role in the development of bladder outlet obstruction in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). As a result, alpha adrenoceptor antagonists have been used increasingly in the treatment of this condition. Doxazosin is a selective alpha 1 antagonist with a long half-life and gradual onset of action, which make it suitable for once-daily treatment. In placebo-controlled trials, doxazosin has been shown to improve maximum and mean urine flow rates, reduce urethral resistance and bladder contractility, and improve obstructive and irritative symptoms. These changes develop within a few weeks of starting treatment and are maintained during long-term treatment over periods of years. Doxazosin is also well tolerated; adverse events are generally mild or moderate and do not interfere with treatment. These features combine to make doxazosin an effective, convenient and well-tolerated treatment for the management of patients with BPH.