An old man Baba comes to you and is diagnosed to be having benign hypertrophy of prostate. The drug which provides faster and greater symptomatic relief to this patient will be:
**Core Concept**
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition characterized by the enlargement of the prostate gland, leading to urinary retention, frequency, and nocturia. The symptoms are caused by the compression of the urethra and bladder outlet by the enlarged prostate tissue.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The drug that provides faster and greater symptomatic relief for BPH is an alpha-1 adrenergic receptor blocker, specifically alfuzosin. Alfuzosin works by relaxing the smooth muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, thereby increasing the flow of urine and reducing symptoms. This is achieved through its action on the alpha-1 adrenergic receptors, which are found in the smooth muscle cells of the prostate and bladder neck.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is not relevant to the treatment of BPH.
**Option B:** Although 5-alpha reductase inhibitors like finasteride can reduce prostate size and symptoms, they take longer to work and may not provide immediate relief.
**Option C:** This option is not a standard treatment for BPH.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Alpha-1 adrenergic receptor blockers like alfuzosin can cause orthostatic hypotension as a side effect, so patients should be advised to take the medication in the morning and to stand up slowly.
**Correct Answer: C. Alfuzosin**