The use of OTC drugs is alarmingly high in Bangalore East. Pharmacists have to be trained and educated regarding rationale dispensing of drugs. The need for promoting the appropriate use of drugs in the Indian health care system is important. This can be achieved through educational, regulatory and managerial strategies.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), the most common benign tumor in 78% of elderly men older than 50 years of age, is responsible for urinary symptoms. [1] BPH has been known for centuries to be a cause of urinary dysfunction. It was mentioned in the Egyptian papyri as early as 1500 BC and was discussed by Hippocrates 1000 years later. From the time of birth until puberty, there is little change in the size of prostate. At puberty, a rapid increase in size occurs that continues up to the third decade. Prostatic growth, at this time, increases at the rate of 1.6 g/year. Thereafter, its growth markedly decreases to 0.4 g/year in men of age 31-90 years. [2] At age 55,