Terazosin, Pygeum africanum and combination in the management of prostatic obstruction: a comparative study

ABSTRACT

The efficacy of a combination of alpha adrenergic antagonist (Terazosin) and Pygeum Africanum in the management of prostatic obstruction was measured and compared with that of a single pharmacologic agent using Terazosin in one group and Pygeum Africanum in the other. Ninety-seven patients completed the treatment course. Terazosin was prescribed at an initial dose of 1 mg tablet at bedtime increased to a maximum of 4 mg. Pygeum Africanum and placebo were taken at 2 capsules each twice daily while the combination followed the same dosage. Duration of treatment lasted for 6 weeks. Assessment was based according to 2 parameters. Objective data consisted of diurnal and nocturnal frequency, urine flow rate and residual volume. The other parameters consisted of subjective symptoms evaluated qualitatively by the patient. In all parameters, there was no significant difference between the placebo pre-treatment and post-treatment values. On the contrary, results of the combination Pygeum Africanum and Terazosin, and both as monotherapy showed significant therapeutic effects (p0.05). The combination therapy, however, revealed the highest mean values in all objective parameters, and patients claimed marked improvement in all subjective symptoms, thereby making it the most effective treatment for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia. Dose related side-effects were encountered within Terazosin. Dizziness and hypotension were common complaints. On the contrary, Pygeum Africanum appeared to be well-tolerated.