Characterization of Alpha 1 Adrenergic Receptors in Human Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Abstract

Bladder outlet obstruction in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia is decreased following administration of prazosin, a selective alpha₁ adrenergic antagonist. Prazosin presumably binds and antagonizes alpha₁ adrenergic receptors on the smooth muscle cells of the prostatic adenoma. This study represents the first identification and characterization of alpha₁ adrenergic receptors in the prostate using radioligand receptor binding methods.