Volume 8, Supplement 4Review ArticlesThe Use of Alpha-Blockers for the Treatment of NephrolithiasisAdvances in Alpha-Blocker Therapy in the Management of Urological DisordersOjas D ShahMichael LipkinMedical expulsion therapy has been shown to be a useful adjunct to observation in the management of ureteral stones. Alpha-1-adrenergic receptor antagonists have been studied in this role. Alpha-1 receptors are located in the human ureter, especially the distal ureter. Alpha-blockers have been demonstrated to increase expulsion rates of distal ureteral stones, decrease time to expulsion, and decrease need for analgesia during stone passage. Alphablockers promote stone passage in patients receiving shock wave lithotripsy, and may be able to relieve ureteral stent–related symptoms. In the appropriate clinical scenario, the use of a-blockers is recommended in the conservative management of distal ureteral stones. [Rev Urol. 2006;8(suppl 4):S35-S42]Kidney stonesBlockersUreteral stones
Volume 13, Number 1Review ArticlesDemystifying the Medical Management of NephrolithiasisManagement UpdateMichael LipkinGlenn M Preminger"Nephrolithiasis is a common problem associated with significant costs to the health care system. Its prevalence continues to increase, particularly in women, which is attributed to changes in diet and lifestyle. The costs associated with the evaluation and management of nephrolithiasis in the United States has been estimated to be $1.83 billion, and, without any intervention, the risk of recurrence is high. This article reviews the management options for nephrolithiasis including a new formulation of potassium citrate, UrocitÆ-K 15 mEq, that allows for dosing flexibility which can lead to improved compliance and tolerability. [Rev Urol. 2011;13(1):34-38 doi: 10.3909/riu0522]"NephrolithiasisStandard metabolic evaluationHypercalcuria