What drug is commonly used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate)?

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The correct choice for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is commonly Finasteride. Finasteride is a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, which works by reducing the size of the prostate and alleviating the symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate. It functions by blocking the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to prostate growth.

While Terazosin, which is also listed, is used to treat BPH, its primary mechanism is different. Terazosin is an alpha-blocker that helps relax the muscles in the bladder and prostate, improving urine flow. It is effective but may not address the underlying prostate enlargement as effectively as Finasteride.

Dutasteride and Tamsulosin also play roles in BPH management, but Finasteride is specifically recognized for reducing prostate size. Thus, for comprehensive treatment focusing on the enlargement itself, Finasteride is the preferred choice.

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