Aim:: The aim of this study is to investigate the efficacy and safety of long-term therapy with Serenoa repens extract with regard to halting benign prostatic hyperplasia progression.
Material and methods:: An open non-comparative observational study of the continuous use of S. repens plant extract at a dosage of 320 mg once a day for 15 years was performed in 30 patients at risk for benign prostatic hyperplasia progression. Changes in IPSS (International Prostatic Symptoms Scale) and QoL (Quality of life) scores and changes in Qmax, voided volume, residual urine volume, and prostate volume were evaluated during the study.
Results:: The study showed an absence of progression based on both subjective (the sum of scores on the IPSS and QoL scales) and objective (prostate volume, urination rate, residual urine volume) criteria. Furthermore, the patients had no adverse events related to the study drug, including prostate cancer.
Conclusions:: The 15 years' study results suggest that taking S. repens plant extract continuously at a daily dose of 320 mg is an effective and safe way to prevent the progression of benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Keywords: Benign prostatic hyperplasia; continuous use; plant extracts; risk of progression.