The Effect of Phytosterols on Quality of Life in the Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Coleman C, Hebert J, Reddy P

Objective Determine the effect of phytosterols, often promoted as a safe and natural OTC way for a man to maintain a healthy prostate, on the quality of life of patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Methods Phytosterols are readily available dietary supplements in the US. To gauge phytosterols' success in improving quality of life for BPH patients, previous studies on the subject were targeted for review. The primary goals of treating BPH are to reduce lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and improve quality of life, but existing studies mainly focus on clinical outcomes and only occasionally evaluate effects on quality of life. Randomized clinical trials were identified by conducting online database searches and examining references cited in studies. The review covered seven studies that investigated phytosterols in the treatment of BPH without other herbals or dietary supplements and listed quality of life as an end point. Results There is a standard questionnaire for assessing the treatment effect on LUTS, but quality of life, a subjective perception, does not have such a standard and numerous instruments exist. Evidence suggests phytosterols improve urologic symptoms and flow control. Results from six of seven studies indicated phytosterols provide beneficial effects in BPH patients' quality of life, but poor design of those studies restricts what can be learned. Several factors of the reviewed studies make it difficult to reach clear conclusions from this research including: little consistency in the way quality of life is evaluated; limited number of patients; short-term focus; few placebo-controlled groups; narrow response options for patients; and inadequate comparison of phytosterols with alpha-blocking agents, one of the most widely administered and effective treatments for BPH. Conclusion Larger, confirmatory studies comparing phytosterols to other BPH treatments and measuring long-term effects are needed, according to the authors. Studies should also use the same questionnaires to determine potential changes in quality of life after treatment. Pharmacotherapy 2002;22(11):1426-1432. Return to Top