Rethinking the Role of Saw Palmetto for Men's Health: An International Panel of Urology Experts Publishes Consensus Statements

An expert panel reviewed over 50 original clinical research studies and developed seven consensus statements regarding the science and benefits of a high-quality extract for men with lower urinary tract symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate.

LAKE MARY, Fla., July 21, 2022 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- An international panel of seven leading urologists from North America and Europe convened to review the global scientific evidence for saw palmetto extract, also known as lipidosterolic extract of Serenoa repens, in men with lower urinary tract symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate. In their paper entitled "Rethinking the Role of Saw Palmetto Extract for Men with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in North America," published in the urology journal Uro, the authors generated a total of seven consensus statements that included scientific evidence on the proposed mechanism of action, required quality profile, and the results from clinical trials examining efficacy and safety. The authors concluded that a high-quality saw palmetto extract should be considered as an option for men with mild-to-moderate lower urinary tract symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate.

"Across the globe, there has been a lack of consensus with regards to the effectiveness of saw palmetto extract resulting in differing recommendations for the use of saw palmetto extract by health organizations around the world," said co-author Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt. "The goal of this expert panel was to contribute to our collective understanding of the science and generate discussion about the role a high-quality saw palmetto extract can play in men's health."

As noted by lead author of the panel, Dr. J. Curtis Nickel, the challenge for urologists is the variability of product quality, especially in the United States, and how that can influence how urologists view saw palmetto supplements in patient care. "Our panel recognized that the literature on the benefit of saw palmetto extract for LUTS was specific to a high-quality extract used at 320 mg daily." The panel highlighted that the current evidence suggests that high-quality lipidosterolic extracts with a profile defined by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) monograph are likely important for clinical effectiveness.

The Urology Care Foundation reports that an enlarged prostate impacts about half of men aged 50 to 60 and 90% of men over the age of 80. Many of these men will experience lower urinary tract symptoms, such as increased urination, sudden urgency and a weak stream. These symptoms can reduce overall quality of life, including disrupting sleep. "This 2022 review suggests that a high-quality saw palmetto extract can play a positive role in the care physicians provide to aging men in the United States," said Dr. Leigh Vinocur, board-certified physician and chief medical officer of Flomentum Health.

Media Contact

William Donovan, Flomentum Health, 1 3524837188, [email protected]

SOURCE Uro