Permixon 160 mg is derived from the fruit of Serenoa repens, commonly known as Saw Palmetto. This product is a standardized hexanic lipidosterolic extract, manufactured via n-hexane extraction to ensure a consistent composition of active compounds in every dose. This standardization sets it apart from many non-regulated dietary supplements. The medication is primarily used in certain healthcare systems, particularly across Europe, to address symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate.
Treating Symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is an enlargement of the prostate gland that occurs as men age. As the prostate grows, it can press on the urethra, leading to various lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).
The symptoms Permixon alleviates include issues with urine storage and voiding. These manifest as increased urinary frequency, a sudden urge to urinate, and nocturia. Voiding symptoms also include a weak or intermittent stream and difficulty starting urination. Treatment is typically reserved for men experiencing mild to moderate BPH symptoms that do not yet require more invasive medical or surgical intervention.
Understanding the Mechanism of Action
The therapeutic effect of the standardized Serenoa repens extract involves a dual mechanism of action. One primary action is its anti-androgenic effect through the inhibition of the 5-alpha reductase (5AR) enzyme. This enzyme converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a potent androgen that stimulates prostate cell growth.
The lipidosterolic extract contains high concentrations of free fatty acids, such as oleic and lauric acids, which competitively inhibit both Type I and Type II isoforms of the 5AR enzyme. Blocking this conversion reduces the DHT available to promote prostate cell proliferation, limiting the progression of enlargement. The second mechanism involves anti-inflammatory properties within the prostate gland itself.
Prostate enlargement often has an inflammatory component, and the extract interferes with the production and action of pro-inflammatory mediators. It modulates inflammatory pathways and reduces the concentration of pro-inflammatory eicosanoids. This reduction in local inflammation contributes to the relief of LUTS by decreasing pressure on the urethra. The combined effect of limiting hormonal stimulation and reducing inflammation distinguishes this extract’s pharmacological profile.
Reviewing Clinical Evidence and Safety
Clinical evidence supports the efficacy of Permixon 160 mg in managing LUTS associated with BPH. Clinical trials demonstrate improvements in patient-reported symptom scores, such as the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). Meta-analyses indicate that improvement in IPSS score is often comparable to that achieved with some conventional medications.
Specifically, patients often report a measurable reduction in nocturia, with studies showing a decrease in night-time voids compared to placebo. Objective measures also show positive changes, including an increase in maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax), which indicates improved bladder emptying. Notably, the hexanic extract does not negatively affect sexual function, which is an advantage over some other BPH treatments that can cause erectile dysfunction or reduced libido.
The safety profile of Permixon is favorable, with adverse drug reactions being infrequent and mild. The most common side effects reported are related to the gastrointestinal system, such as mild abdominal pain or nausea, with an incidence rate of approximately 3.8% in clinical studies. A specific instruction often given is to take the capsule with food to minimize the chance of stomach upset.
Unlike synthetic 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, the extract does not interfere with the measurement of Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) levels, allowing PSA to remain a reliable biomarker for prostate cancer screening during treatment. Contraindications are limited but include known hypersensitivity or allergy to the active substance or any components of the capsule. The medication is intended only for adult men.
Dosage, Administration, and Treatment Context
The standard recommended dosage for Permixon is 160 mg taken twice daily, resulting in a total daily dose of 320 mg. The capsules are taken orally, and it is advised to take them during meals to enhance absorption and reduce the risk of temporary gastrointestinal disturbances like nausea. The full therapeutic effect may take several weeks to months, with some patients requiring up to 4 to 8 weeks before a beneficial response is observed.
Permixon is utilized as a first-line option for men with mild to moderate symptoms who prefer to avoid the potential side effects associated with conventional pharmaceutical options. It addresses the symptoms but should not be considered a replacement for surgical intervention if the BPH progresses to a stage where surgery becomes medically necessary.