Beirut, Lebanon, 18 March 2019: Urinary conditions are more common than one might think; up to 90% of men between the ages of 50 and 80 years may suffer from lower urinary tract symptoms, also known as LUTS. Additionally, according to a study conducted with men aged 40 years and over, out of whom almost three quarters reported at least one LUTS symptom and of that, almost half reported mixed urinary symptoms.
To address this medical need, Astellas have launched VESOMNI, a prescription-only medication dedicated to male patients who suffer from moderate to severe urinary mixed symptoms. It is a combination therapy of two different active ingredients (solifenacin and tamsulosin) that target both the bladder and the prostate, as a result addressing different urinary symptoms all with once daily medication. For the selected group of patients who are significantly bothered by such symptoms, the combination therapy is shown to have increased patient compliance (taking the medication in accordance with the prescription), which can lead to better clinical outcomes.
Dr Muhammad Bulbul, Clinical professor acting Head, AUB (American University of Beirut Medical Center)said: “Educating the general public and addressing their concerns about LUTS is essential as it is a burden for the ageing male population and prevalence will only increase as men get older. It is important for men to know that LUTS is not just a normal part of aging and it is a treatable condition, and so if they notice any changes to their urination, it is a good idea to consult a physician.”
Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) include voiding (or obstructive symptoms) such as poor and/or intermittent stream and storage (or irritative symptoms) such as increased frequency of daytime urination, having a sudden and compelling urge to void, urge incontinence, and nocturia (waking up several times during the night because of the need to urinate).
The most common cause of LUTS is benign prostate enlargement which can impair the normal flow of urine. An enlarged prostate or BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) is common in men over 40 years. This enlargement pushes on the bladder walls and urinary tract leading to problems passing urine. Other conditions that can cause LUTS include bladder muscle overactivity or underactivity, prostate inflammation, urinary tract infection, prostate cancer and neurological disease and others4.
LUTS can have a considerable impact on a man’s quality of life, through either stress or embarrassment. LUTS may also disrupt sleep, impact on social activities, work and affect relationships, which can also lead to depression or anxiety. Men with LUTS or BPH may also experience sexual dysfunction (e.g. erectile dysfunction) . Additionally, families of men with LUTS can also be affected, mainly due to factors such as stress and anxiety.
There are several treatment options for LUTS, depending on the type and degree of bother caused. The treatment can include management of underlying conditions and lifestyle changes, prescription oral medication and, in severe cases, surgery4.
Mr. Malek Ejjeh, Astellas Levant Cluster Manager, commented “At Astellas we are committed to improving the lives of patients around the world and with our strong longstanding heritage in urology we are proud to introduce additional treatment options for LUTS sufferers in Lebanon.”
About Astellas
Astellas Pharma Inc., based in Tokyo, Japan, is a company dedicated to improving the health of people around the world through the provision of innovative and reliable pharmaceutical products. We focus on Urology, Oncology, Immunology, Nephrology and Neuroscience as prioritized therapeutic areas while advancing new therapeutic areas and discovery research leveraging new technologies/modalities. We are also creating new value by combining internal capabilities and external expertise in the medical/healthcare business. Astellas is on the forefront of healthcare change to turn innovative science into value for patients. For more information, please visit our website at www.astellasmenassa.com