How Does Medication Affect Prostatitis?

Prostatitis is a condition that affects the prostate gland in men and causes groin pain and urination difficulties. The prostate is located below the bladder and produces components of semen, a liquid that transports sperm.

Acute Prostatitis

• According to the Mayo Clinic, acute bacterial prostatitis can cause a sudden and severe infection that may require hospitalization. This condition is treated with antibiotics that must be taken for a full course of treatment that may last two to four weeks.

Chronic Bacterial Prostatitis

• Patients with chronic bacterial prostatitis may have recurring infections that are mild or severe. These men may need to complete longer courses of antibiotic treatment.

Chronic Pelvic Pain

• Alpha blocker drugs, such as alfuzosin or doxazosin, may be prescribed to relieve urination pain. These drugs relax the neck of the bladder and the muscle that connects the bladder with the prostate.

Nonprescription Pain Relief

• Ibuprofen or aspirin may provide some pain relief for patients with milder cases of prostatitis. A patient should ask his doctor about safe doses, since overuse of pain medication can cause significant side effects. These include abdominal pain, intestinal bleeding or ulcers.

Lifestyle

• Individuals with prostatitis may experience some relief from their symptoms if they soak in a warm sitz bath or sit on an inflatable cushion or pillow.