A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled phase 2 dose-ranging study of onabotulinumtoxinA in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Background: Botulinum toxin treatment has been investigated as a minimally invasive alternative to oral medications in men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia (LUTS/BPH).

Objective: To explore the efficacy of onabotulinumtoxinA 100 U, 200 U, and 300 U versus placebo in men with LUTS/BPH in a phase 2 dose-ranging study.

Design, Setting, And Participants: A multicenter double-blind randomized, placebo-controlled 72-wk study enrolled men ≥ 50 yr of age with LUTS/BPH, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) ≥ 12, total prostate volume (TPV) 30-100ml, and maximum flow rate (Q(max)) 5-15 ml/s.

Intervention: Single transperineal (n=63) or transrectal (n=311) administration of placebo (n=94) or onabotulinumtoxinA 100 U (n=95), 200 U (n=94), or 300 U (n=97) into the prostate transition zone.

Outcome Measurements And Statistical Analysis: The primary efficacy end point was a change from baseline in IPSS at week 12. Secondary end points were Q(max), TPV, and transition zone volume (TZV). Analysis of covariance and the Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel method assessed the efficacy and proportion of IPSS responders. Adverse events (AEs) were assessed.

Results And Limitations: Significant improvements from baseline in IPSS, Q(max), TPV, and TZV were observed for all groups, including placebo, at week 12 (p<0.001), with no significant differences between onabotulinumtoxinA and placebo. However, in an exploratory post hoc analysis, a significant reduction in IPSS versus placebo was observed with onabotulinumtoxinA 200 U in prior α-blocker users (n=180) at week 12. AEs were comparable across all groups.

Conclusions: Reductions in LUTS/BPH symptoms were seen in all groups, including placebo, with no significant between-group differences owing to a large placebo effect from the injectable therapy. The findings from the post hoc analysis in men previously treated with α-blockers will be further explored in an appropriately designed study.

Trial Registration: http://www.Clinical Trials.gov; NCT00284518.