As a means of offering effective relief for Benign Prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) patients, PharmacyPlus Limited has introduced to the Nigerian market, DUOSTAM, a dual-action drug that combines Tamsulosin (0.4mg) and Dutasteride (0.5mg), at the opening ceremony of the 97th annual Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) conference in Uyo.
The product, designed to manage BPH symptoms and delay surgical intervention, was launched with endorsements from medical experts and industry leaders at the event.
Leading the launch, Prof Ikenna Nnabugwu, a consultant urologist from the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, emphasised DUOSTAM’s clinical relevance in managing prostate enlargement, a common condition affecting men as they age.
“Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a natural part of aging, but it can cause significant discomfort by obstructing urinary flow. DUOSTAM offers a safe and effective approach to alleviate these symptoms, delay the need for surgery, and improve quality of life,” Prof. Nnabugwu stated.
The drug’s formulation, which includes an alpha-1 blocker and a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, targets BPH symptoms such as bladder outlet obstruction, urinary retention, and discomfort. “DUOSTAM merges Tamsulosin and Dutasteride to provide a comprehensive approach to treating BPH, offering a solution that slows disease progression and reduces the need for surgical intervention,” he explained.
Addressing misconceptions surrounding BPH, the university don pointed out that many Nigerians confuse “prostate” with “prostrate” and mistakenly believe it signals illness. “The prostate is a vital organ that supports fertility, and benign enlargement is a common aspect of aging. DUOSTAM offers a clinically validated, non-surgical solution for managing these symptoms,” he added.
Pharm. Iyke Aneke, head of marketing at PharmacyPlus, spoke on the company’s mission to improve health outcomes in Nigeria. He highlighted that DUOSTAM was introduced to bring succor to patients with BPH, combining availability and affordability.
“DUOSTAM fills a critical need by providing a medically approved treatment for BPH symptoms,” Aneke explained, adding that its development was supported by extensive research to ensure effectiveness across healthcare settings.
PSN President, Prof. Cyril Usifoh, praised the launch, commending PharmacyPlus’s commitment to healthcare advancements in Nigeria. He affirmed that the introduction of DUOSTAM aligns with PSN’s vision of accessible, evidence-based treatments. “We hope this will be a vital resource for pharmacists and patients nationwide,” Usifoh remarked.
The event concluded with a formal unveiling of DUOSTAM, led by Dr Teresa Pounds and Pharm. Yaro Budah, amidst applause from attendees, signifying PharmacyPlus’s ongoing contribution to healthcare innovation in Nigeria.