Silodosin Causes Impaired Ejaculation and Enlargement of Seminal Vesicles in Sexually Active Men Treated for Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Suggestive of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Abstract

To evaluate the sexual side effects including ejaculation after silodosin treatment in potent men with regular sexual activity, as well as possible alterations in seminal vesicle volume. Sexually active patients aged ≥ 40 years with moderate to severe lower urinary tract symptoms were enrolled prospectively. International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and Quality of Life (QoL), International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire, ejaculation frequency, and seminal vesicle volumes measured by transrectal ultrasonography were determined at study entry, and silodosin 8 mg/d was prescribed for 4 weeks. Alterations in IPSS-QoL, all domains of IIEF, ejaculation frequency, seminal vesicle volumes, and patient-reported side effects were evaluated after silodosin treatment. Thirty patients were included, and mean age was 56.7 ± 6.9 years (44-70 years). IPSS-total, IPSS-storage, and IPSS-voiding subscores and QoL were significantly improved after treatment. Despite a slight decrease in erectile function domain of IIEF (26.7 ± 1.9 vs 22.9 ± 7.5; P <.05), no significant change was determined for orgasmic functions, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, and overall satisfaction. Ninety percent of patients (27 of 30) had impaired ejaculation, and seminal vesicles were significantly enlarged at the end of treatment (8.1 ± 6.4 vs 16.4 ± 8.2 cc; P <.001). Impaired ejaculation is a common problem for sexually active men treated with silodosin, and this may result in the slight decrease in erectile functions. Enlargement of seminal vesicles may represent for the loss of seminal emission and accumulation of seminal vesicle secretion. Further studies are required for better clarifying the effects of silodosin on sexual functions including ejaculatory functions.