Botox® studied for potential to reduce enlarged prostate
HOUSTON -- (November 30, 2007) -- Botox® may reduce benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or enlarged prostate, said a Baylor College of Medicine physician-scientist.
Dr. Christopher Smith, an assistant professor of urology at BCM, said a National Institutes of Health multi-center study will examine the shrinking effects of Botox® on these patients. He will lead the BCM portion of the study.
"Lower urinary tract symptoms resulting from BPH can be secondary to enlargement of the gland and/or due to increased muscle tone within the gland," said Smith. "The prostate becomes compressed against the urethra, causing the symptoms of urinary frequency, urgency and decreased force of stream."
BPH is a common disorder in men over the age of 50. Read more about BPH.
"Research has shown that nerves are a major source of prostate growth," said Smith. "They release chemicals and growth factors that have a direct influence on the maintenance and growth of prostate tissue."
Botox® is a commercial preparation of botulinum toxin A that works by preventing nerve impulses from reaching the muscle.
"In animals and humans, injecting Botox® can shrink and relax the prostate so that the urinary systems from the BPH are decreased," said Smith. "This has been show to be effective in both large and small prostates."
"So now we're not just looking at the cosmetic upside of Botox®," Smith said. "We're investigating whether this potent therapeutic agent can have a positive impact on improving the quality of life of men suffering from BPH symptoms."
Those interested in taking part in this study can contact Sebrina Tello at stello@bcm.edu or 713-798-8106. The study will be funded by the National Institute of Health. For more information on this trial and others in the department, visit http://www.bcm.edu/urology/?PMID=4989.