The prostate gland functions within the male reproductive system and because it surrounds the urethra it also affects urinary function. An enlarged prostate, a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, affects approximately half of men in their 60s and up to 90 percent of men in their 70s and 80s, as described by the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse. The resulting symptoms lead many men seeking treatment, which can be found in the form of generic medications.
Functions
This small walnut-sized prostate gland not only provides 1/3 of the fluid in semen but also produces a protein known as prostate specific antigen--PSA--that nourishes and protects sperm, according to PSA Rising. Because the urethra runs through the prostate, it can squeeze this fluid into the urethra to join the sperm. In treating conditions affecting the prostate gland, doctors try to minimize the effect on prostate function, therefore choosing generic medications over minimally invasive or invasive procedures.
Growth
The prostate undergoes two main growth phases during male development. The first, during puberty, allows the prostate to double in size. The second growth phase often begins in the mid-20s but does not end. This second growth phase allows the prostate to slowly grow, leading to an enlarged prostate as males grow older. Male hormones, including testosterone and dihydrotestosterone--DHT--may play a role in prostate growth. Some generic medications target the hormones in order to reduce prostate size.
Symptoms
The prostate lies between the bladder and the rectum with very little room for expansion. As the prostate enlarges, it presses against the bladder and squeezes the urethra, creating an obstruction that can lead to a gradual loss of bladder function. Most men therefore realize they suffer from an enlarged prostate when urinary symptoms appear. Symptoms include a hesitant or weak urinary stream, urinary urgency and frequent urination, according to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Some generic medications used to treat enlarged prostate aim to relieve these symptoms.
5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors
Doctors often prescribe a generic medication classified as a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor. 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme, converts testosterone into DHT, a potent male androgen hormone. In addition to functioning in sexual development, DHT facilitates prostate enlargement and hair loss. 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, such as finasteride and dutasteride, reduce the level of DHT, therefore reducing the size of the prostate.
Alpha Blockers
Another group of generic medications, including terazosin, doxazosin, tamsulosin, and alfuzosin, relax the smooth muscles in the prostate and the bladder neck. Classified as alpha blockers, these medications bind to the alpha adrenergic receptors in muscles, triggering relaxation, according to a study published by Dr. Lepor in the 2006 issue of "Review in Urology." By relaxing these muscles, the medications reduce the obstruction on the urethra and improve urine flow.
References
- National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Prostate Enlargement
- PSA Rising: Prostate
- "Review in Urology": The Evolution of Alpha-Blockers for the Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia' Dr. Lepor; 2006
- U.S. National Library of Medicine: Finasteride
- U.S. National Library of Medicine: Dutasteride
