EFFICACY OF LONG-TERM DUTASTERIDE THERAPY IN PATIENTS WITH BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is one of the most common urological diseases among elderly men and is associated with the development of lower urinary tract symptoms that significantly reduce quality of life. Dihydrotestosterone plays a key role in the pathogenesis of BPH, which justifies the use of 5α-reductase inhibitors in its treatment. Dutasteride, a dual 5α-reductase inhibitor, is widely used to reduce prostate volume and improve urinary symptoms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and functional efficacy of long-term dutasteride therapy in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia. Patients diagnosed with BPH received dutasteride at a daily dose of 0.5 mg over a long-term period. Treatment outcomes were assessed using the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), maximum urinary flow rate measured by uroflowmetry, prostate volume determined by transrectal ultrasonography, and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels. The results demonstrated a significant reduction in lower urinary tract symptoms, a decrease in prostate volume, and an improvement in urinary flow parameters during long-term dutasteride therapy. The drug was generally well tolerated, and no serious adverse effects were observed. In conclusion, long-term dutasteride therapy is an effective and safe treatment option for patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia, providing sustained clinical improvement and functional benefits.