Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

The newest FDA-approved treatment for weight management and type 2 diabetes.

Includes tirzepatide, a medication that acts on two important hormones: GLP-1 and GIP.

This dual-action approach helps suppress appetite while also supporting better blood sugar regulation.

Intended to deliver improved results when used alongside lifestyle modifications.

Approved for weight management in adults who are overweight or obese.

Contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist medication.

Works by mimicking a natural hormone that influences the brain’s appetite regulation centers.

Supports reduced hunger and calorie consumption to encourage long-term weight loss.

Although oral and injectable weight loss medications can contain the same active ingredient (like semaglutide), their chemical formulations are specifically tailored to their method of delivery. Injectable medications are administered directly into the bloodstream, while oral medications must withstand the digestive process, resulting in different designs to maintain their effectiveness.

Key distinctions include:

• Injectables bypass the digestive tract, allowing for more efficient absorption; oral medications often require absorption enhancers.
• Oral tablets are formulated with protective coatings and carriers to withstand stomach acid.
• Injectables are often chemically more stable, especially for peptide-based drugs.
• Injectables generally allow for higher drug levels in the blood.
• Oral tablets contain more excipients (binders, coatings, etc.) than injectables.

Oral weight loss medications can be effective, but they don’t always function identically to injectable treatments. Even when containing the same active ingredient, oral medications are absorbed differently, which can slightly impact how much of the drug is available to work in the body.

That said, for many individuals, oral options offer a convenient and clinically effective alternative.

Key points:

• Oral medications may deliver lower drug levels into the bloodstream compared to injectables.
• Higher oral doses are often used to make up for reduced absorption.
• Clinical trials show that oral semaglutide (like Rybelsus) can produce weight loss comparable to injections in some individuals.
• For those who prefer to avoid injections, oral treatments provide an effective option when taken as directed and consistently.

The exact cause of BPH is not fully understood, but it is primarily linked to hormonal changes that occur as men age. Testosterone, a male hormone, is converted into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which plays a role in prostate growth. Over time, the accumulation of DHT within the prostate gland can lead to its enlargement. Other factors that may contribute to BPH include genetics and family history.

Diagnosing BPH involves a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare provider. The diagnostic process typically includes:
Medical History: The healthcare provider will inquire about urinary symptoms, their frequency and severity, as well as any previous medical conditions or medications.
Digital Rectal Examination (DRE): The healthcare provider will perform a physical exam by inserting a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to assess the size, shape, and consistency of the prostate gland.
Urinary Flow Test: This test measures the speed and force of urine flow. A reduced flow rate may indicate an obstruction caused by an enlarged prostate.
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: A blood test that measures PSA levels. While elevated PSA levels may suggest BPH, they can also be associated with other prostate conditions, including cancer.
Ultrasound or Imaging: An ultrasound may be used to visualize the prostate and assess its size and structure.

Treatment options for BPH depend on the severity of symptoms, the impact on quality of life, and individual preferences. Treatment goals include relieving symptoms and improving urinary function. Commonly used approaches include:
Watchful Waiting: For individuals with mild symptoms, a healthcare provider may recommend regular monitoring without immediate intervention.
Medications: Alpha-blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors are medications that can help relax the prostate gland and improve urine flow.
Minimally Invasive Procedures: Procedures such as transurethral microwave therapy (TUMT) and transurethral needle ablation (TUNA) use heat to reduce prostate tissue and relieve symptoms.
Surgery: Surgical options include transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), which involves removing excess prostate tissue, and laser procedures that vaporize or remove tissue.

While BPH cannot be completely prevented, certain measures can help manage symptoms and promote prostate health:

- Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Regular exercise and weight management may help support prostate health.

- Limit Fluid Intake Before Bed: Reducing fluid intake in the evening can help minimize nighttime trips to the bathroom.

- Manage Stress: Stress management techniques, such as relaxation exercises and mindfulness, can contribute to overall well-being.

- Regular Check-ups: Routine visits to a healthcare provider can help monitor prostate health and detect any changes early.

In conclusion, Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition characterized by the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. While BPH is a normal part of aging, understanding the causes, diagnosis, available treatments, and prevention strategies is essential for managing urinary symptoms and promoting prostate health. Consulting a healthcare provider for personalized guidance and monitoring can help individuals navigate BPH and make informed decisions about their well-being.

Read more about Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia on the NHS website, following the link below:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/prostate-enlargement/