Analytical Accuracy and Reliability of Commonly Used Nutritional Supplements in Prostate Disease
J Urol 2002 (Jul); 168 (1): 150-154
Commonly used nutritional supplements for prostate disease vary widely in measured dose. Saw palmetto demonstrated tremendous variability with some samples containing virtually no active ingredients. In contrast, the more regulated substances we measured, such as vitamins and minerals, demonstrated less variation.
Saw Palmetto Extracts for Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Systematic Review
JAMA 1998 (Nov 11); 280 (18): 1604–1609
The existing literature on S repens for treatment of BPH is limited in terms of the short duration of studies and variability in study design, use of phytotherapeutic preparations, and reports of outcomes. However, the evidence suggests that S repens improves urologic symptoms and flow measures.
Saw Palmetto Monograph (Serenoa repens)
Alternative Medicine Review 1998 (Jun); 3 (3): 227–229 ~ FULL TEXT
Benign prostatic hyperplasia is one of the most common medical conditions in middle-aged and elderly males, with an incidence of approximately 50-60 percent in men age 40-60, and greater than 90 percent in men over 80. The disease process leading to symptomatology in older males probably begins as early as the late 20s, and may have an incidence rate of 10 percent at that age. Rarely a fatal disease, BPH affects the patients' lifestyle and comfort.
Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) in Men with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms: Effects on Urodynamic Parameters and Voiding Symptoms
Urology 1998; 51 (6): 1003–1007
Saw palmetto is a well-tolerated agent that may significantly improve lower urinary tract symptoms in men with BPH. However, we were unable to demonstrate any significant improvement in objective measures of bladder outlet obstruction. Placebo-controlled trials of saw palmetto are needed to evaluate the true effectiveness of this compound.
Serenoa repens (Permixon). A Review of its Pharmacology and Therapeutic Efficacy in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Drugs Aging 1996 (Nov); 9 (5): 379–395
In conclusion, Serenoa repens is well tolerated and has greater efficacy than placebo and similar efficacy to finasteride in improving symptoms in men with BPH. Although there is a need for further comparative studies, particularly with alpha 2-receptor antagonists, available data indicate that Serenoa repens is a useful alternative to alpha 1-receptor antagonists and finasteride in the treatment of men with BPH.
Treatment of Obstruction in Prostatic Adenoma Using an Extract of Serenoa Repens. Double-Blind Test vs. Placebo
Min Urol Nefr 1985; 37: 87–91
Twenty-seven patients (age 49-81 years) with state I and II prostatic adenomas were given either Serenoa repens extract (160 mg twice daily) or placebo. Patients receiving the serenoa extract effectively improved urinary symptoms and urine flow meter graps. In two cases, serenoa repens extract reduced the volume of the adenoma.
Thanks to Pub Med
for their quality MEDLINE search tool.
