An enlarged prostate is a problem for many men. It is estimated that more than half of the men over 60 suffer from benign prostatic hyperplasia, often referred to as simply BPH. Symptoms include frequent urination, especially during nighttime hours, and unsteady urine flow. If left untreated, a urinary tract infection may develop.
Those suffering from an enlarged prostate can elect to take prescription medications to shrink the size of the prostate or decide to go with an herbal treatment that involves taking supplements.
Finasteride
Finasteride is a popular prescription treatment that is also known for its ability to regrow hair on people suffering from male pattern baldness. For treating BPH, the recommended dose is 5 mg per day and the trade name is Proscar, while the 1-mg tablets for hair loss are known as Propecia.
Doxazosin
Doxazosin is a popular prescription drug for treating high blood pressure, as well as BPH. It works by improving the blood flow through the veins and arteries.
Dutasteride
Dutasteride is another prostate drug that has a strong following among the hair-loss crowd. Dutasteride, which is more commonly referred to as its trade name Avodart, works by limiting the production of dihydrotestosterone, or DHT, in the body. DHT is the hormone responsible for prostate growth and is also believed to be the leading cause of male pattern baldness.
Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto is an extremely popular herbal treatment for enlarged prostates and has undergone rigorous testing on its effectiveness. Saw palmetto takes time to work, and it could be as long as 90 before before any positive effects are noticed.
Crinum Latifolium
Crinum latifolium, a Vietnamese herb, is another over-the-counter supplement that has shown great promise in a clinical setting. A December 10, 2002, study that appeared in the "Journal of Health and Life of Vietnamese Health Ministry" included 158 men with enlarged prostates. At the end of the 64-day study, 97 percent of the participants saw their prostates return to normal size.
