Dapoxetine: The On-Demand Treatment Option
It is therefore up to the patient and his doctor to make the call to use this class of drugs off label. Don’t be afraid to seek treatment for premature or rapid ejaculation. It is a very common condition, and one of the most common sexual dysfunctions. Your UCLA Men’s Clinic provider will be understanding and likely have an effective treatment that will please you and your partner. Board-certified urologists staff The Men’s Clinic at UCLA and you can be assured you are getting an experienced physician performing your evaluation and procedure in a relaxed and comfortable environment. For more information and to schedule an appointment, please call the UCLA Urology Appointment line at 310-794-7700. Premature ejaculation (PE), lifelong and acquired, is the most common male sexual disorder, with serious impacts on the patient and his partner’s quality of life, sexual well-being, and psychosocial health. The most popular treatment options are on-demand topical anesthetics and off-label daily or on-demand selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), followed by behavioral therapy.
Data availability
Nevertheless, this widely accepted definition by the ISSM is applicable to heterosexual penis-vagina sexual activities, while we have limited information on how to define PE in other sexual activities, such as anal sex or in men with homosexual orientations. Epidemiological studies, based on non-validated PE definitions and patient self-reported outcome (PRO) measures, found prevalence of PE complaints in the male population as high as 20–30% [5,6,7,8,9]. However, subsequent epidemiology studies applying evidence-based PE definitions found much lower prevalence rates (~5%) for both lifelong and acquired PE [10,11,12,13]. Of note, since PE is frequently a self-reported and self-rated complaint, it is difficult to determine its epidemiology. Complicating the matter further is the fact that PE is diagnosed in some couples based on distress and not on objective symptoms [14].
Early and Delayed Ejaculation: Psychological Considerations
While the exact etiology of PE remains undetermined [15,16,17,18], the most widely accepted theories regarding the etiology of lifelong PE center on disruptions in neurotransmitter activities within the central nervous system. This includes serotonin, noradrenaline, oxytocin, nitric oxide (NO), and Gama aminobutyric acid (GABA) [19]. Additionally, increased sensitivity of the glans penis [20], erectile dysfunction (ED) [21, 22], genetic polymorphisms [23,24,25,26], hormonal libido booster for woman imbalances [27, 28], and prostatic diseases [29, 30] also contribute to its pathophysiology. Further research is necessary to evaluate the impact of these factors on ejaculation physiology. The etiology of acquired PE is more closely associated with underlying medical, psychological, and interpersonal causes, as described by Serefoglu et al.
PDE5 Inhibitors for Premature Ejaculation
Since the 1990s, the prevailing treatment options for both lifelong and acquired PE have been on-demand topical anesthetics and off-label daily or on-demand selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) [32], including Dapoxetine, a swiftly absorbed and short-acting SSRI, which stands as the sole approved oral medication for PE treatment. Notably, Dapoxetine lacks approval from the US Food and Drug Administration due to its uncertain efficacy and safety [32]. While the majority of men with PE report these treatments as safe, some may experience minor adverse effects. Additionally, SSRIs offer only a temporary delay in ejaculation latency time, with PE often resurfacing after treatment cessation [32,33,34,35,36]. Certain PE patients and their partners might find the necessity to apply a topical anesthetic 5–10 min before each sexual encounter dissatisfying [37]. While SSRI treatments are reportedly safe, they are associated with limited efficacy and provide only a temporary delay in ejaculation latency time. The majority of PE patients are dissatisfied with SSRIs; thus, adherence to on-demand or daily SSRI treatments is low. In this article, we review studies on currently available technologies that are not pharmacological, surgical, cognitive or behavioral therapies.
| Drug Name | Approval Year | Primary Use | Recommended Dosage | Prescription Needed | Monitor Required | Typical Side Effects |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dapoxetine | 2009 | Premature ejaculation | 30 mg before sex | Yes | Yes | Nausea, dizziness |
| Paroxetine | Approved for other uses, off-label for PE | 20 mg/day | Yes | Yes | Yes | Fatigue, sexual dysfunction |
| Sertraline | Approved for depression, off-label for PE | 50 mg/day | Yes | Yes | Yes | Insomnia, digestive issues |
Recent data from studies of newly developed medical devices used in PE treatment are encouraging as they provide drug-free spontaneity during coitus, without severe adverse effects. Premature ejaculation (PE), one of the most common male sexual disorders, profoundly affects the quality of life for both the patient and their partner [1].
| Product | Dosage | Quantity + Bonus | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Levitra Generic | 40mg | 270 + 10 Pills | 561.89€ 535.13€ | |
| Cialis Super Active | 20mg | 270 + 30 Pills | 661.49€ 629.99€ | |
| Tadalista Super Active | 20mg | 270 + 30 Pills | 661.49€ 629.99€ | |
| Apcalis SX Oral Jelly | 20mg | 10 Sachets | 58.75€ 55.95€ | |
| Kamagra Polo | 100 mg | 12 Pills | 60.21€ 57.34€ | |
| Kamagra Gold | 50 mg | 360 + 6 Pills | 713.95€ 679.95€ | |
| Cialis Generic | 60mg | 360 + 10 Pills | 570.52€ 543.35€ | |
| Viagra Super Active | 100mg | 270 + 30 Pills | 390.61€ 372.01€ | |
| Cialis Original | 20mg | 92 + 4 Pills | 377.99€ 359.99€ | |
| Cialis Generic | 40mg | 360 + 10 Pills | 477.87€ 455.11€ | |
| Levitra Generic | 10mg | 30 + 4 Pills | 62.39€ 59.42€ | |
| Cialis Super Active | 20mg | 60 + 8 Pills | 230.32€ 219.35€ | |
| Priligy Generic Dapoxetine | 60mg | 60 + 8 Pills | 183.06€ 174.34€ | |
| Cialis Generic | 20mg | 180 + 10 Pills | 254.09€ 241.99€ | |
| Levitra Generic | 60mg | 30 + 2 Pills | 109.43€ 104.22€ | |
| Viagra Super Active | 100mg | 20 + 4 Pills | 48.05€ 45.76€ |
Many of the proposed definitions for PE lack a foundation in scientific data and lack diagnostic criteria [2, 3]. The International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM) defines PE (lifelong and acquired) as characterized by the following criteria: ejaculation which almost always or always occurs prior to or within 1 min of vaginal penetration (lifelong PE) or a clinically significant and upsetting reduction in ejaculation latency time, of often up to 3 min (acquired PE); inability to delay ejaculation in nearly all or all vaginal penetrations (lifelong and acquired PE); and negative personal consequences, such as inconvenience, distress, frustration, and/or avoidance of sexual intimacy (lifelong and acquired PE) [4]. Nevertheless, this widely accepted definition by the ISSM is applicable to heterosexual penis-vagina sexual activities, while we have limited information on how to define PE in other sexual activities, such as anal sex or in men with homosexual orientations.
Other treatments against premature ejaculation
Epidemiological studies, based on non-validated PE definitions and patient self-reported outcome (PRO) measures, found prevalence of PE complaints in the male population as high as 20–30% [5,6,7,8,9]. However, subsequent epidemiology studies applying evidence-based PE definitions found much lower prevalence rates (~5%) for both lifelong and acquired PE [10,11,12,13].
- Dapoxetine is contraindicated with certain medications and health conditions.
- Topical creams should be used sparingly to prevent partner numbness.
- SSRI treatment may cause emotional blunting or decreased libido.
- Tramadol's risk of dependency requires careful medical supervision.
- Mechanical devices can provide temporary ejaculation delay.
- Behavioral training involves specific sex exercises for control.
- Mindfulness and relaxation techniques benefit PE management.
- Proper diagnosis is essential to rule out underlying disorders.
- Incorporate partner feedback to improve treatment results.
- Avoid abrupt discontinuation of prescribed medication.
- Lifestyle modifications can include weight management.
- Ongoing research aims to develop more effective PE treatments.
Of note, since PE is frequently a self-reported and self-rated complaint, it is difficult to determine its epidemiology. Complicating the matter further is the fact that PE is diagnosed in some couples based on distress and not on objective symptoms [14].
Scheduling an Appointment
A post-marketing study reveals that a significant majority (up to 75%) of PE patients express dissatisfaction with topical anesthetic treatments. Consequently, adherence to topical anesthetic treatments remains low, at ~10% [38]. Behavioral therapy, specifically sex therapy, represents a treatment with fewer side effects and lower costs. Its goal is to enhance self-confidence and alleviate anxiety and depression by systematically training men to acquire sexual skills that can extend ejaculation time. In the short term, behavioral therapy can yield success rates ranging from 45% to 65% of patients, but its long-term effects remain uncertain [39].
Citalopram (Celexa)
A definitive cure for PE is still elusive, and ongoing research is focused on identifying the optimal treatment for this condition. Consequently, in response to the unmet need for PE therapy, new technologies are currently under development. This review article is aimed at providing a summary of the presently available non-pharmacological, non-surgical technological therapies for PE, excluding cognitive or behavioral approaches. We will discuss the findings from studies that are dedicated to creating innovative technological treatment options for PE. Pelvic floor muscles (PFMs), specifically the ischiocavernosus and bulbospongiosus muscles, assume a pivotal role in the expulsion phase of ejaculation, expressed by increase in electromyographic activity during ejaculation [40].
Squeeze technique
The men enhancement pills objective of physio-kinesiotherapy and electrostimulation is to augment the contractile strength of the perineal muscles, complemented by biofeedback to facilitate patients in mastering the recognition and contraction of PFMs, thereby strengthening the urethral sphincter. However, a comprehensive understanding of the intricate protocol dynamics is often necessitated, requiring patients to undergo several months of PFM training to gain control over the ejaculatory reflex and adeptly apply acquired skills during sexual activity [40]. [41], 40 patients with lifelong PE and intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT) values below 1 min underwent a 12-week PFM rehabilitation regimen, comprising physio-kinesiotherapy, trans anal probe electro-stimulation, and thrice-weekly biofeedback sessions. Post-intervention, the mean IELT demonstrated a significant increase compared to baseline values (31.7 s vs. 146.2 s, respectively, P < 0.0001). While the exact etiology of PE remains undetermined [15,16,17,18], the most widely accepted theories regarding the etiology of lifelong PE center on disruptions in neurotransmitter activities within the central nervous system. This includes serotonin, noradrenaline, oxytocin, nitric oxide (NO), and Gama aminobutyric acid (GABA) [19]. Additionally, increased sensitivity of the glans penis [20], erectile dysfunction (ED) [21, 22], genetic polymorphisms [23,24,25,26], hormonal libido booster for woman imbalances [27, 28], and prostatic diseases [29, 30] also contribute to its pathophysiology. Further research is necessary to evaluate the impact of these factors on ejaculation physiology. The etiology of acquired PE is more closely associated with underlying medical, psychological, and interpersonal causes, as described by Serefoglu et al. Since the 1990s, the prevailing treatment options for both lifelong and acquired PE have been on-demand topical anesthetics and off-label daily or on-demand selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) [32], including Dapoxetine, a swiftly absorbed and short-acting SSRI, which stands as the sole approved oral medication for PE treatment. Notably, Dapoxetine lacks approval from the US Food and Drug Administration due to its uncertain efficacy and safety [32]. While the majority of men with PE report these treatments as safe, some may experience minor adverse effects. Additionally, SSRIs offer only a temporary delay in ejaculation latency time, with PE often resurfacing after treatment cessation [32,33,34,35,36]. Certain PE patients and their partners might find the necessity to apply a topical anesthetic 5–10 min before each sexual encounter dissatisfying [37]. A post-marketing study reveals that a significant majority (up to 75%) of PE patients express dissatisfaction with topical anesthetic treatments. Consequently, adherence to topical anesthetic treatments remains low, at ~10% [38]. Behavioral therapy, specifically sex therapy, represents a treatment with fewer side effects and lower costs. Its goal is to enhance self-confidence and alleviate anxiety and depression by systematically training men to acquire sexual skills that can extend ejaculation time. In the short term, behavioral therapy can yield success rates ranging from 45% to 65% of patients, but its long-term effects remain uncertain [39]. A definitive cure for PE is still elusive, and ongoing research is focused on identifying the optimal treatment for this condition.
- Dapoxetine used before sex provides quick relief from PE.
- Topical anesthetic applications should be tailored to individual needs.
- SSRIs may cause delayed orgasm or decreased sexual desire.
- Tramadol is an alternative but carries substantial risks.
- Training with behavioral techniques can lead to lasting improvements.
- Fatigue and stress reduction support sexual performance.
- Pelvic floor strengthening is a natural method to control ejaculation.
- Psychological support addresses underlying emotional issues.
- Mechanical aids are an option for some men.
- Combining medications with psychotherapy enhances efficacy.
- Avoid self-medicating without professional advice.
- Consistent follow-up optimizes long-term management.
Consequently, in response to the unmet need for PE therapy, new technologies are currently under development.
| Strategy | Description | Expected Outcome | Time Frame | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mindfulness Meditation | Practice focusing on the present moment to reduce anxiety | Reduced performance anxiety | Weeks to months | Complements other treatments |
| Sensate Focus Exercises | Partner-based touching exercises to build comfort | Increased control and intimacy | Several weeks | Requires partner cooperation |
| Cognitive Behavioral Therapy | Therapy addressing thoughts and anxiety related to sex | Better sexual confidence | Several sessions | Often part of a comprehensive plan |
This review article is aimed at providing a summary of the presently available non-pharmacological, non-surgical technological therapies for PE, excluding cognitive or behavioral approaches. We will discuss the findings from studies that are dedicated to creating innovative technological treatment options for PE. Pelvic floor muscles (PFMs), specifically the ischiocavernosus and bulbospongiosus muscles, assume a pivotal role in the expulsion phase of ejaculation, expressed by increase in electromyographic activity during ejaculation [40]. The men enhancement pills objective of physio-kinesiotherapy and electrostimulation is to augment the contractile strength of the perineal muscles, complemented by biofeedback to facilitate patients in mastering the recognition and contraction of PFMs, thereby strengthening the urethral sphincter. However, a comprehensive understanding of the intricate protocol dynamics is often necessitated, requiring patients to undergo several months of PFM training to gain control over the ejaculatory reflex and adeptly apply acquired skills during sexual activity [40]. [41], 40 patients with lifelong PE and intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT) values below 1 min underwent a 12-week PFM rehabilitation regimen, comprising physio-kinesiotherapy, trans anal probe electro-stimulation, and thrice-weekly biofeedback sessions. Post-intervention, the mean IELT demonstrated a significant increase compared to baseline values (31.7 s vs. 146.2 s, respectively, P < 0.0001). [42] retrospectively reviewed 154 participants with baseline IELT values of 60 s or less and Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool (PEDT) scores exceeding 11. The 12-week PFM rehabilitation program included physio-kinesiotherapy, trans anal probe electrostimulation, and three weekly biofeedback sessions, each lasting 20 min. Of the 122 participants completing PFM rehabilitation, 111 gained control over their ejaculation reflex, resulting in a mean IELT of 161.6 s and a PEDT score of 2.3 at the intervention endpoint, indicating a significant increase from baseline IELT of 40.4 s and PEDT score of 17.0 (P < 0.0001).
Find your care
At the 36-month follow-up, 64% and 56% of the remaining 95 participants maintained satisfactory ejaculation control at 24- and 36-months post-intervention, respectively.
| Remedy | Type | Usage Description | Reported Benefits | Common Side Effects | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kegel Exercises | Physical activity | Repeatedly contracting pelvic muscles | Improved control | Muscle soreness | No medication involved |
| Herbal Supplements | Plant-based extract | Taken orally, e.g., ginseng, yohimbe | Possible enhancement of control | Interactions with medications | Evidence varies |
| Acupuncture | Traditional therapy | Stimulating specific body points | Stress reduction | Mild soreness | Limited scientific evidence |
Protocols utilizing PFM rehabilitation, incorporating physio-kinesiotherapy, trans-anal probe electrostimulation, and biofeedback, are characterized as protracted and cumbersome, lacking on-demand suitability during intercourse. Patients often necessitate substantial time to comprehend the intricacies of the protocol, essential for achieving control over their ejaculatory reflex and subsequently applying this knowledge during sexual activity. [43] proposed an alternative approach to PE treatment, utilizing transcutaneous electrical neuro stimulation (TENS) on the perineal region. The rationale was that TENS would suppress rhythmic contractions in the expulsion phase by generating a plateau action potential, through continuous stimulation of the bulbospongiosus and ischiocavernosus muscles. Anticipated benefits included hindering muscle relaxation, sustaining the muscles in a sub-tetanic contraction state, thus potentially leading to delayed ejaculation during sexual intercourse.
Additional info
It is therefore up to the patient and his doctor to make the call to use this class of drugs off label. Don’t be afraid to seek treatment for premature or rapid ejaculation. It is a very common condition, and one of the most common sexual dysfunctions. Your UCLA Men’s Clinic provider will be understanding and likely have an effective treatment that will please you and your partner. Board-certified urologists staff The Men’s Clinic at UCLA and you can be assured you are getting an experienced physician performing your evaluation and procedure in a relaxed and comfortable environment.
Behavioral Therapy and Techniques for Reducing Arousal Levels
For more information and to schedule an appointment, please call the UCLA Urology Appointment line at 310-794-7700. Premature ejaculation (PE), lifelong and acquired, is the most common male sexual disorder, with serious impacts on the patient and his partner’s quality of life, sexual well-being, and psychosocial health. The most popular treatment options are on-demand topical anesthetics and off-label daily or on-demand selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), followed by behavioral therapy. While SSRI treatments are reportedly safe, they are associated with limited efficacy and provide only a temporary delay in ejaculation latency time. The majority of PE patients are dissatisfied with SSRIs; thus, adherence to on-demand or daily SSRI treatments is low.
What you can do in the meantime
In this article, we review studies on currently available technologies that are not pharmacological, surgical, cognitive or behavioral therapies. Recent data from studies of newly developed medical devices used in PE treatment are encouraging as they provide drug-free spontaneity during coitus, without severe adverse effects. Premature ejaculation (PE), one of the most common male sexual disorders, profoundly affects the quality of life for both the patient and their partner [1]. Many of the proposed definitions for PE lack a foundation in scientific data and lack diagnostic criteria [2, 3]. The International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM) defines PE (lifelong and acquired) as characterized by the following criteria: ejaculation which almost always or always occurs prior to or within 1 min of vaginal penetration (lifelong PE) or a clinically significant and upsetting reduction in ejaculation latency time, of often up to 3 min (acquired PE); inability to delay ejaculation in nearly all or all vaginal penetrations (lifelong and acquired PE); and negative personal consequences, such as inconvenience, distress, frustration, and/or avoidance of sexual intimacy (lifelong and acquired PE) [4]. [44] piloted a study to test this hypothesis, employing a commercial TENS device on the perineum of 23 patients with lifelong PE, with each patient serving as their own control. The study compared Masturbating Ejaculatory Latency Time (MELT) with and without TENS during self-sexual stimulation. Results indicated significantly higher mean MELT values during TENS treatment compared to self-stimulation without TENS (311.4 s vs.
The bottom line
[42] retrospectively reviewed 154 participants with baseline IELT values of 60 s or less and Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool (PEDT) scores exceeding 11. The 12-week PFM rehabilitation program included physio-kinesiotherapy, trans anal probe electrostimulation, and three weekly biofeedback sessions, each lasting 20 min. Of the 122 participants completing PFM rehabilitation, 111 gained control over their ejaculation reflex, resulting in a mean IELT of 161.6 s and a PEDT score of 2.3 at the intervention endpoint, indicating a significant increase from baseline IELT of 40.4 s and PEDT score of 17.0 (P < 0.0001). At the 36-month follow-up, 64% and 56% of the remaining 95 participants maintained satisfactory ejaculation control at 24- and 36-months post-intervention, respectively. Protocols utilizing PFM rehabilitation, incorporating physio-kinesiotherapy, trans-anal probe electrostimulation, and biofeedback, are characterized as protracted and cumbersome, lacking on-demand suitability during intercourse.
Treatment Options For Premature Ejaculation
Patients often necessitate substantial time to comprehend the intricacies of the protocol, essential for achieving control over their ejaculatory reflex and subsequently applying this knowledge during sexual activity. [43] proposed an alternative approach to PE treatment, utilizing transcutaneous electrical neuro stimulation (TENS) on the perineal region. The rationale was that TENS would suppress rhythmic contractions in the expulsion phase by generating a plateau action potential, through continuous stimulation of the bulbospongiosus and ischiocavernosus muscles. Anticipated benefits included hindering muscle relaxation, sustaining the muscles in a sub-tetanic contraction state, thus potentially leading to delayed ejaculation during sexual intercourse. [44] piloted a study to test this hypothesis, employing a commercial TENS device on the perineum of 23 patients with lifelong PE, with each patient serving as their own control.
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The study compared Masturbating Ejaculatory Latency Time (MELT) with and without TENS during self-sexual stimulation. Results indicated significantly higher mean MELT values during TENS treatment compared to self-stimulation without TENS (311.4 s vs. 124.6 s, P = 0.0009), signifying an ~4-fold increase in MELT. Notably, the absence of an established MELT threshold in the literature prompted the researchers to assume a correlation with IELT in PE patients, an assumption lacking scientific validation and constituting a significant study limitation. 124.6 s, P = 0.0009), signifying an ~4-fold increase in MELT. Notably, the absence of an established MELT threshold in the literature prompted the researchers to assume a correlation with IELT in PE patients, an assumption lacking scientific validation and constituting a significant study limitation.
