Botox helpful for enlarged prostate

Many older men find they have problems passing urine because of an enlarged prostate gland. Recently, researchers have shown that injection of Botox into the prostate appears to be a safe and effective treatment for the problem.Currently, Botox is approved by the US FDA for cosmetic applications. Researchers from the University Hospital Agostino Gemelli in Rome, tried the strategy in 30 men with enlarged prostate and related voiding problems. In random fashion the men were given injections of either Botox or saline solution into the prostate.The patients were then tracked for an average of 20 months. At two months, 13 of the 15 Botox-treated patients reported relief of their urinary difficulties, compared with only three of the men given saline injections. Botox treatment produced a 65 percent drop in symptom scores, and a 51 percent fall in prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels. Neither of these measurements changed significantly with saline injection.

Researchers saw no complications from either the Botox or saline injections. They found Botox injection into the prostate to be a promising approach for the treatment of prostate enlargement. It is well-tolerated and can be considered for patients who are at risk of surgery. However, at present use of the botox in the urinary tract is clearly under investigation. It should be emphasised that cautious examination of its application in the general community is warranted because it is a neurotoxin with potential and significant life-threatening morbidities.

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