Extract from Cucurbita pepo improves BPH symptoms without affecting sexual function: a 24-month noninterventional...

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Pharmacology
• Men's Health

Background:

• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition in aging men.
• Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with BPH significantly impact quality of life.
• Non-hormonal treatments are sought for managing LUTS/BPH symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of pumpkin seed soft extract (PSE) in managing LUTS/BPH symptoms.
• To assess the impact of PSE on quality of life and sexual well-being in patients with LUTS/BPH.
• To analyze treatment outcomes in a routine clinical practice setting.

Main Methods:

• A noninterventional study involving 130 men treated with PSE for up to 24 months.
• Assessment of symptoms using the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and IPSS-Quality of Life (IPSS-QoL).
• Evaluation of sexual well-being and erectile function using the Aging Males' Symptoms Scale (AMS) and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5).

Main Results:

• After 12 months, a mean reduction of 4.7 points in IPSS was observed.
• Significant improvements in IPSS-QoL were noted, with 62% of patients reporting satisfaction at 12 months and 73% at 24 months.
• No negative impact on sexual function was reported, with AMS and IIEF-5 scores remaining stable.

Conclusions:

• Pumpkin seed soft extract (PSE) offers symptomatic relief for men with moderate LUTS suggestive of BPH.
• PSE treatment improves quality of life and maintains sexual well-being in this patient population.
• PSE is a viable option for managing LUTS/BPH, particularly for men with low progression risk and active sex lives.