PROSTATITIS TREATMENTS

Cases of bacterial prostatitis call for antibiotics. Common treatments include tetracyclines, quinolones, and the combination of trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole (marketed under the brands Duobact or Septrin and available as a generic). So far, there are no carefully controlled studies comparing the different options.

Treatment of nonbacterial cases of prostatitis is fraught with even more uncertainty. Many doctors prescribe antibiotics on the theory that the patient may have a hidden infection. Other common treatments are aimed at the symptoms, not the underlying condition. A class of drugs known as alpha-blockers, including tamsulosin (Omnic) and doxazosin (Cardura) seems to help some men with urinary symptoms. Hot baths and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen and naproxen) may help ease pain. Researchers are currently working to shed some light on this disease. A large-scale study funded by the National Institutes of Health is expected to assess the true value of antibiotics and alpha-blockers for patients with nonbacterial prostatitis. Another study is testing whether etanercept (Enbrel), a drug used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (an auto-immune disorder), can be of help. For now, patients should work closely with their doctors and be willing to try different treatments.