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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 16, 2026

Retzius-Sparing Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy

Retzius-Sparing Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy

Published on: May 19, 2022

Side Effects of alpha-Blocker Use: Retrograde Ejaculation.

Steven A Kaplan¹

¹Institute for Bladder and Prostate Health, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University New York, NY.

Reviews in Urology

|February 4, 2010

Summary

Five alpha-blockers treat lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), but they vary in causing abnormal ejaculation. This review details their specific effects on ejaculatory function, including retrograde ejaculation, in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Keywords:

Benign prostatic hyperplasia Lower urinary tract symptoms Retrograde ejaculation α-Blockade

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Last Updated: Jun 16, 2026

Retzius-Sparing Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy

Retzius-Sparing Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy

Published on: May 19, 2022

Area of Science:

Urology
Pharmacology

Background:

Five alpha-blockers are FDA-approved for treating lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).
Current guidelines suggest equal efficacy among these alpha-blockers.
A significant difference exists in their potential to cause ejaculatory dysfunction.

Purpose of the Study:

To review the effects of currently available alpha-blockers on ejaculatory function.
To specifically examine the incidence of retrograde ejaculation associated with these medications in men with LUTS due to benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Main Methods:

Literature review of FDA-approved alpha-blockers for LUTS.
Analysis of studies reporting on ejaculatory function and retrograde ejaculation.
Comparison of side effect profiles related to sexual function.

Main Results:

Alpha-blockers demonstrate varying impacts on ejaculatory function.
Retrograde ejaculation is a notable side effect with differential prevalence among agents.
Understanding these differences is crucial for patient counseling.

Conclusions:

While effective for LUTS, alpha-blockers are not uniform in their effects on ejaculation.
Clinicians should consider the potential for ejaculatory dysfunction when selecting an alpha-blocker.
Patient-specific factors and desired sexual function should guide treatment choices.