Research>Finasteride or Proscar
How to Overcome Enlarged Prostate Problems with Finasteride
As common as it is for women to fret over to appearance of a zit passed puberty or rants on about a 'barely-there' wrinkle, is as common as how men are most likely to face prostate problems. One of the many problems would be enlarged prostate.
Often enough, men fret over this matter due to the stereotype mindset of 'if it has gotten bigger, it's cancer.' Truth is, prostates tend to get bigger in size as the male ages and their hormones and testosterone levels decrease. The first and easiest tell-tale sign to detect if you're suffering from this would be when there is an increase in the need to urinate especially during the night. Most men ignore this and won't realize till the problem gets worse.
In addition to that, later symptoms of enlarged prostate problem would be problems getting regular erections, rapid loss in appetite, burning sensation while urinating and so on. Finally it is also possible that this could lead to an increased risk of urinary infection. With this, there are a couple of ways to help solve this issue and prevent it from getting worse.
Once you realize you have a problem, immediately consult a doctor. At early stages, this problem can be cured with the help of a drug named Finasteride. This particular drug Finasteride blocks the action of the male hormone, or alpha blockers which relax the smooth muscle which makes up the prostate. Also, question your doctor and see if you could take supplements such as African Plum and Saw Palmetto which has been said to do more good than harm for the prostate. Lastly, if medication doesn't work surgery would be the next best option.
In conclusion, always notice slight changes in your daily habits and take note that it is important to visit your doctor when sudden changes occur as it could be a serious matter.
Strategies for Prevention of Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is a very common disease among males in the United State. If
skin cancer is excluded, prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer
among men living in the United States. Prostate cancer may have much
variation in the stage and extend of disease at presentation and in many
people the cancer might linger for a long period of time without causing any
significant problems to the person. Because of this reason, number of men
who would die from prostate cancer is much smaller than the number of men
who would be diagnosed with prostate cancer.There are several factors that might increase the risk of developing
prostate cancer and by modifying some of these factors it might be possible
to decrease the risk of this disease in some people. Also some attempts at
modification of the external environment may also reduce the risk of
developing prostate cancer.Chemoprevention: The term chemoprevention is generally referred to the use
of synthetic drugs, vitamins, or other agents to prevent the development of
a cancer. Several drugs have shown potential benefits as prostate cancer
prevention agents. These drugs are still in early stages of clinical trials
and much more studies are required to authoritative state that these drugs
indeed prevent the development of prostate cancer. Some of the drugs which
are in active clinical trial for prevention of prostate cancer include,
difluoromethylornithine (DFMO), isoflavonoids, selinum, vitamin D, vitamin E
and lycopene.Changes in diet and life-style: Diets rich in animal fats might increase the
risk of developing prostate cancer, so theoretically decreasing the amount
of animal fat in the diet might decrease the risk of developing prostate
cancer. Active clinical trials are ongoing focusing on the issues of dietary
modification as a way of prostate cancer prevention. Some of the ongoing
studies might answer the question if food low in animal fats and high in
fruits and vegetables would ultimately decrease the risk of prostate cancer.
Some recent studies have shown that dietary products and diets rich in
calcium might increase the risk of developing prostate cancer. Future
studies may answer the question with regard to benefit of dietary
modification in the context of prostate cancer.Hormonal prevention: Prostate cancer is treated with suppression of male
hormone testosterone. In theory drugs that would cause a decrease in the
testosterone levels might decrease the risk of prostate cancer development.
Studies are undergoing using some of the male hormone blocking drugs to see
if this strategy would be effective in prostate cancer prevention. An
example of one such drug is finasteride, which causes a decrease in the
amount of male hormone (testosterone) produced by the body.In summary there are several strategies that might be effectively used to
prevent the development of prostate cancer. Some of these strategies are
more promising than other ones and only more work and research would
ultimately show us, which of these strategies are better and if so if these
strategies could be used in combination.
Are Medications for the Treatment of Enlarged Prostate (Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy) Effective?Alpha adrenergic receptor blocker medications, including doxazosin (Cardura), prazosin (Minipress), alfuzosin (Uroxatral), and terazosin (Hytrin), cause a relaxation of prostate smooth muscle and increase urine flow (Lepor et al 1996; McConnell et al 2003). The FDA has approved all of these medications for the treatment of BPH, with the exception of Minipress. Minipress is a medication that has been on the market for the treatment of hypertension for many years; your doctor has the right to prescribe it for you "off label" for the treatment of BPH if he or she thinks it is indicated. There are no current plans to obtain an indication for Minipress for the treatment of BPH, since it has been off patent for many years. All of the alpha adrenergic receptor blocker medications have similar side effects including dizziness, postural hypotension, and fatigue. The potential benefit from relief of BPH symptoms is usually worth the side effects of these medications. However, Uroxatral should not be used in patients with liver problems and causes cardiac effects (lengthening of the Q-T interval).
Tamsulosin (Flomax) is a selective blocker of the ±-1A adrenergic receptor that has fewer side effects than the other alpha-blockers because it is more selective to the ±-1A adrenergic receptor than the other drugs reviewed above. The other alpha blockers block adrenergic receptors in both the heart and the brain as well as in the prostate. For this reason they can block the smooth muscles in the blood vessels in these areas and cause the blood vessels to dilate. This changes blood flow in the brain, with associated dizziness, fatigue, or the possibility of passing out if you stand up too quickly (postural hypotension). Since Flomax is more specific to the adrenergic receptors in the prostate, it has fewer of these side effects.
5±-reductase inhibitors include drugs like finasteride (Proscar). One of the most important factors contributing to BPH is the male hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT normally stimulates prostate tissue in adolescent males, which leads to the ability to produce semen and therefore become fertile. In later age, however, DHT can stimulate prostate tissue in a counter-productive way. Proscar inhibits the enzyme responsible for the conversion of testosterone to DHT, 5±-reductase, thereby reducing DHT levels as much as 80%. This is associated with a decrease in prostate volume of 20%, since this hormone stimulates prostate tissue growth. Side effects include decreased libido, impotence and ejaculatory disorder. Dutasteride (Duagen) blocks both types 1 and 2 5±-reductase and has a similar side effect profile as finasteride.
In the PROscar Safety Plus Efficacy Canadian Two Year Study (PROSPECT), 613 men with moderate BPH symptoms were started on a two year treatment course with Proscar or placebo (Nickel et al 1996). Finasteride resulted in a statistically significant reduction in symptom scores compared to placebo, with a baseline score of 15.8 the difference between finasteride and placebo was only 0.4, not a very big difference. There was about a 10% increase in urinary flow rates. Over twice as many (15.8%) of finasteride patients developed impotence as patients on placebo (6.3%). In a study comparing finasteride to the alpha blocker terazosin and placebo, 1229 were randomized to blinded treatment for one year. Change in symptom scores were 2.6 for placebo, 3.2 for finasteride, 6.1 for terazosin, and 6.2 for terazosin and finasteride.(Lepor et al 1996) Similar improvements were seen with urine flow, with greater increases in urine flow for terazosin. Finasteride was no better than placebo, while terazosin was statistically significantly better than both finasteride and placebo. Impotence was higher with finasteride (9%) than placebo (5%) or terazosin (6%). Another study looking at the long term effects of these drugs studied 3047 patients for five years on placebo, doxazosin (alpha blocker), finasteride, or combination therapy. The outcome was a four point increase in BPH symptom score, urinary retention or incontinence. Doxazosin reduced progression by 39% and finasteride by 34% compared to placebo (both statistically significant) (McConnell et al 2003). Combination therapy was even better (66% reduction) and was associated with a reduction in the need for surgery, as was finasteride alone.
Based on these findings I recommend the use of the alpha blockers initially (doxazosin (Cardura), prazosin (Minipress), alfuzosin (Uroxatral), and terazosin (Hytrin) and Flomax) with addition of Proscar or Duagen depending on symptom response and side effects. Talk it over with your doctor.
Diet, Herbs, and Prostate Cancer
There are multiple problems that can develop in the prostate in older men. These include benign enlargement of the prostate (BPH) and prostate cancer (CaP). Some writers would suggest that BPH and prostate cancer are inevitable problems that occur in any man who lives long enough, but this is not true. There are many dietary and herbal interventions that can help prevent these problems.
BPH or enlargement of the prostate causes a weak stream, nighttime urination, frequent urination and retention of urine in the bladder. It is commonly treated with two types of prescribed medicines; finasteride (Proscar) and alpha-adrenergic blockers such as terazosin. In severe cases, surgical resection of the prostate through the urethra is performed. Saw Palmetto, derived from the American dwarf pine tree, is effective at treating early BPH. It inhibits the conversion of testosterone to dihydro-testosterone and therefore leads to shrinkage of the prostate. This is incidentally the same mechanism by which finasteride works. In fact, it has similar efficacy as finasteride with fewer side effects. Stinging nettle, which inhibits the growth of prostate cells, is commonly added to saw palmetto in Europe to treat early BPH.
Prostate Cancer is the most common cancer in men with approximately 230,000 new cases annually. It is second only to lung cancer in deaths with 30,000 men dying each year. Prostate cancer risk is affected by male hormones as well diet. Men in the orient have a very low risk of prostate cancer, while men in Western Europe and United States have a high risk of prostate cancer. Furthermore, when men in the Orient eat a Western diet their risk of prostate cancer increases.
WHAT TO AVOID:
The typical American diet high in animal meat, cured meats, animal fats, and milk increases the risk of prostate cancer. This type of diet not only leads to CaP but also to other cancers, heart disease and strokes.
WHAT TO EAT
Diets high in vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids are the best way to prevent prostate cancer. Additionally, you can consider adding some of the following.
Soy protein (isoflavones) in the diet protects against CaP by altering the production and metabolism of male hormones and estrogen. In the orient, it is thought that the high soy content contributes to the low incidence of prostate cancer.
Fish and omega-3 fatty acids (olive oil) are associated with a decreased risk of CaP. They are anti-inflammatory and improve health of blood vessels. Olive oil has been shown to directly inhibit growth of prostate cancer cells. Flaxseed another omega-3 fatty acid also has phyto-estrogen activity. In a study by Duke University, flaxseed was found to inhibit CaP cells in men who were undergoing prostatectomy.
Saw Palmetto may help to prevent CaP by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to dihydro-testosterone. Its anti-inflammatory effect further inhibits cancer formation.
Stinging Nettle has been shown to inhibit the growth of prostate cells and prostate cancer cells both in the laboratory and in mice. Further human studies are needed.
Green Tea (polyphenols and isoflavones) has multiple effects including anti-oxidant, anti-proliferative, anti-angiogenesis, and encourages natural cell death (apoptosis). There are strong data in the orient for its use in preventing prostate cancer.
Lycopene (tomatoes) is a powerful anti-oxidant and therefore prevents damage to the prostate from oxygen radicals. Oxidative damage has been linked to chronic diseases and cancers.
Selenium, an essential mineral, is found in our diet. It has many activities including inhibition of prostate cancer as well as other cancers. Higher blood concentrations of selenium correlate with a decreased risk of prostate cancer.
Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and Brussel sprouts) contain sulforaphane and indole-3 carbinol. These substances induce enzymes in the GI tract to break down cancer causing substances. They are also excellent anti-oxidants.
Pumpkin seeds contain zinc and are thought to help with BPH. Zinc in small amounts appears to protect against prostate cancer but high amounts of zinc (100mg/day) may increase the risk of prostate cancer.
Prostate problems are not inevitable in men. A healthy diet and some herbs can go a long way in preventing prostate problems and possibly even prostate cancer.
Prostrate Problems - Nearly All Men Will Suffer and Some Will Die!
A question to all my male readers - ' Have you ever had a full genito urinary examination, yes the one that includes the needle down the urethra?'
Not the most pleasant experience in the world I think chaps!
Don't worry ladies, my wife has already spoken on your behalf ....
"Men should try giving birth!"
I know, and my experience as a GP confirms that women generally have a higher pain threshold then us poor pitiful males.
Unfortunately no one can guarantee that all medical procedures will be pain free, but we do try to give the best preventative advice possible to keep you out of GPs surgeries, hospitals and away from any unpleasant procedures.
Over 90% of men over 45 will suffer prostrate problems!
Yes, it's a fact! Lifestyle, ageing, and a gradual growth of the prostate all inevitably lead to prostate problems.
The most common condition is an enlarged prostate also know as BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia), which can result in acute urinary retention. Its not normally a cancerous condition but the longer left untreated the higher the risk of developing more serious problems, including cancer!
The other most common condition is prostatitis. This is the inflammation of the prostate gland usually caused by an infection.
Here are the tell tale signs for BPH and prostatitis
- Frequent burning urination
- Painful erections (often the erection is not even rigid)
- Mild urinary incontinence
- Pelvic, groin and lower back pain (normally with prostatitis)You don't need to have a medical degree to see where these conditions could lead if left undetected and untreated.
- Incontinence! ( having to wear adult nappies)
- Impotence! ( make sure to read on further about the qualities of Willow Herb)
- Surgery! ( to remove parts of the prostate)
- Cancer! ( possibly a premature death)The problem with men is...
Come on chaps, we all know that we can be a disaster when it comes to our own health, especially when it comes to the genito urinary area.
So many of us procrastinate when it comes to seeing the doctor - we're afraid and we don't like to admit it!
I would urge you to see your doctor if ever you get any of the above symptoms, or even just for a regular check up, especially from middle age onwards.
There are prescribed medications available for prostate problems but they carry risks of some nasty side effects. For example Proscar, the leading medication on the market for treating the symptoms of BPH has produced high levels impotence(19% of users), decreased libido (10%), abnormal ejaculation (8%) and even breast enlargement (2.2%)
However, if you want to look after yourself now, and stay away from unpleasant procedures and all the potential problems that probably lay in store, then I would strongly advise you to follow this list of great prostate health tips and combine them with a proven natural supplement, such as Prostrate Power Formula.
• Limit beverages in the evening. Don't drink anything for an hour or two before bedtime to help you avoid wake-up trips to the bathroom at night.
• Limit caffeine or alcohol. These can increase urine production, irritate your bladder and worsen your symptoms.
• Limit diuretics. If you take water pills (diuretics), talk to your doctor. Maybe a lower dose, a milder diuretic or a change in the time you take your medication will help. Don't stop taking diuretics without first talking to your doctor.
• Limit decongestants or antihistamines. These drugs tighten the band of muscles around your urethra that control urine flow, which makes it harder to urinate.
• Go when you feel the urge. Try to urinate when you first feel the urge. Waiting too long to urinate may overstretch the bladder muscle and cause damage.
• Schedule bathroom visits. Try to urinate at regular times to "retrain" the bladder. This can be done every four to six hours during the day and can be especially useful if you have severe frequency and urgency.
• Stay active. Inactivity causes you to retain urine. Even a small amount of exercise can help reduce urinary problems caused by BPH.
• Keep warm. Colder temperatures can cause urine retention and increase your urgency to urinate.If you follow these lifestyle tips you'll definitely reduce the risk of prostate problems. However to give yourself the absolute best chance of keeping your prostate in good working order, you really must consider a safe and proven natural supplement like Prostrate Power Formula.
The main reason for using taking this supplement is due to its high content of Willow Herb. There are other other supplements containing Willow Herb (often referred to as natures 'trouble shooter') but Prostrate Power Formula has been scientifically refined to a higher quality utilising all the potent properties of this remarkable plant extract!
A marvellous added bonus with Willow Herb, is its documented value as a powerful boost to virility - having taken Willow Herb myself for over 30 years I can certainly vouch for that!
An active and healthy sex life is vital to overall health!
* Please remember that although the genito urinary examinations can be unpleasant, the procedures employed are usually very quick and are normally over in a matter of seconds - so please don't be too worried!
That's all from me for now. Stay healthy and keep smiling!
