A critical analysis of Permixon™ in the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms due to benign prostatic enlargement

Objectives: The lipidosterolic extract of Serenoa repens (Permixon™) is commonly used to treat lower urinary tract symptoms related to benign prostatic enlargement. Pertinent peer-reviewed literature was critically analysed with the aim of clarifying the role of Permixon™ in view of recent basic science and clinical data. Methods: MEDLINE and Cochrane Library searches were used to assess articles published between 1995 and 2005. The key words "Serenoa repens," "Saw palmetto," " Permixon™," "benign prostatic hyperplasia," "lower urinary tract symptoms," "chronic prostatitis," and "prostate cancer" were used. Results: The chemical structure of Permixon™, its efficacy and tolerability, and the comparative studies between Permixon™ and inhibitors of both 5-α-reductase and α-blockers were considered and discussed. The basic rationale behind the therapeutic effects of Permixon™ is sound. Efficacy and safety of the drug are clearly shown. Comparative studies showed similar results between Permixon™, α-blockers, and finasteride in terms of efficacy. Also the tolerability profile of Permixon™ has been shown to be excellent. Conclusions: Although some methodologic limitations hampered the positive results shown in the early studies on Serenoa repens in the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms due to benign prostatic enlargement, recent sound research clearly revealed the positive role of Permixon™. © 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.SCOPUS: re.j