Publisher's Synopsis
Uroselectivity can be discussed from a receptor pharmacological, physiological, or clinical perspective and several questions can be raised: is uroselectivity a meaningful concept; is it just a marketing term; or has it any practical consequences?;The papers presented in this book aim to shed some light on these questions. It begins by presenting the nomenclature of alpha1-adrenoceptor subtypes, their distribution in the body and in particular, in the human prostate. The contributors continue on to discuss the concept of uroselectivity, focusing on pharmacological, physiological and clinical uroselectivity, and aspects on functional uroselectivity, for example preferential effects on lower urinary tract smooth muscle relative to effects on blood pressure or the central nervous system. Also examined is clinical uroselectivity as evidenced by results from BPH patients treated with alfuzosin, whose symptoms reduced and quality of life increased during a 3-year course of treatment. The final message is that clinical uroselectivity as defined by the International Consultation on BPH - desired effects on obstruction and lower urinary tract symptoms relative to adverse effects - can be a guideline for selection of drugs for BPH.
