South Dakota Medication Aide Practice Test

Avodart is recognized as an effective treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) because it belongs to the class of medications known as 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors. This medication works by blocking the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is a hormone that contributes to the growth of prostate tissue. By reducing the levels of DHT in the prostate, Avodart helps to decrease the size of the prostate and alleviate symptoms associated with BPH, such as urinary difficulty and frequency.

In contrast, other medications listed in the options have different mechanisms of action or purposes. Viagra and Cialis are phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors used primarily for erectile dysfunction and are not indicated for the treatment of BPH. Tamsulosin, while not an anti-androgen, is an alpha-1 blocker that helps relax the muscles around the prostate and bladder neck, easing urinary symptoms. However, it does not directly affect hormone levels, making Avodart the more appropriate choice for targeting BPH through hormonal adjustment.