Benign prostatic hypertrophy: Pycnogenol® supplementation improves prostate symptoms and residual bladder volume

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Natural Product Research
• Men's Health

Background:

• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) affects a significant number of aging men.
• Early BPH symptoms can impact quality of life.
• Non-invasive management options are sought for initial BPH stages.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy and safety of Pycnogenol® for early-stage BPH.
• To evaluate Pycnogenol®'s tolerability in healthy men with initial BPH symptoms.
• To compare Pycnogenol® supplementation against standard management and pharmacological treatment.

Main Methods:

• A 60-day study involving 75 healthy men with initial BPH symptoms.
• Three groups were formed: standard management (SM) only, SM plus Pycnogenol® (150 mg/day), and standard pharmacological management.
• Symptom assessment included urinary emptying, frequency, intermittency, urgency, weak flow, straining, and nocturia.

Main Results:

• Pycnogenol® supplementation led to significant improvements in all evaluated BPH symptoms (P<0.05).
• The positive effects of Pycnogenol® were statistically significant when compared to both control groups (P<0.05).
• Pycnogenol® demonstrated good safety and tolerability in the study population.

Conclusions:

• Pycnogenol® shows promise as a self-management option for men with early BPH.
• The natural supplement may help alleviate common BPH-related urinary symptoms.
• Further research could explore Pycnogenol®'s long-term effects and mechanisms in BPH management.