Dapoxetine, marketed as Priligy is the first compound developed specially for the treatment of premature ejaculation in men 18–64 years old.

Priligy (dapoxetine) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) usually prescribed to treat premature ejaculation (PE) in adult men on an as-needed basis.

Priligy was originally designed as an antidepressant, but because the drug is quickly absorbed and eliminated from the body it was not a very effective, or convenient, treatment. On the other hand its short-acting properties, which produce the same effects as other SSRIs, make it ideal for an as-needed PE medication, with relatively little risk of side effects.

Taking Control of PE

PE is generally defined as unwanted or uncontrolled ejaculation prior to or in less than one minute of vaginal penetration. This condition, when persistent, can reduce the pleasure of intercourse and cause frustration for both partners.

It is estimated that PE affects around 20 to 30% of men. Causes range from psychological to physical, and may be a combination of both. Likewise some men experience PE throughout their lives, while other men may develop PE after years of having no problems controlling ejaculation.

In several clinical trials, each involving thousands of men, Priligy was shown to increase the time between penetration and ejaculation, as well as increase control over ejaculation, regardless of the underlying cause of the condition. As an SSRI, the medication also helps reduce anxiety, which often contributes to PE. The exact mechanism by which Priligy helps control PE is not known.

How to Take Priligy

Priligy comes in tablets of 30 or 60 mg in strength. Most men are started on 30 mg; the dose may be increased to 60 mg if 30 mg does not produce desired results and does not produce serious side effects. 60 mg should not be exceeded in a 24 hour period.

A tablet should be taken 1 to 3 hours prior to sexual activity, with a full glass of fluid. Food is not necessary, but may help ease nausea if experienced.

Depending on the individual, the medication will start having an effect between 1 to 3 hours after taking a tablet. Effects typically last for 4 to 5 hours, and sometimes for as long as 24 hours, again depending on the individual.

Other methods of reducing PE, such as masturbation prior to sexual activity, will often further enhance the effects of Priligy.

Alcohol and marijuana may counteract Priligy's beneficial effects and enhance side effects; avoid or limit use of these substances until effects are known. Similarly, taking more than 60 mg of Priligy at once increases the likelihood of negative side effects, which includes erectile dysfunction and loss of libido.

If Priligy is not effective, speak with a doctor about other PE treatment options, such as Anafranil (clomipramine).

Warnings & Side Effects

In otherwise healthy men side effects are rare and usually mild, with most common being:

• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Sleepiness
• Insomnia
• Cold-like symptoms

Generally these effects are slightly more common when taking 60 mg tablets.

Like all SSRIs, there is a chance Priligy can cause erectile dysfunction and loss of libido (interest in sex). Given the short-acting nature of this medication, however, these effects are rare, affecting fewer than 4% of men in clinical trials. These side effects are completely reversible when the medication wears off.

Men with preexisting medical conditions, particularly those affecting the heart, liver, or eyes, or a history of seizures or mental disorders, should speak with a doctor about risks before taking Priligy. Likewise the medication may interact with a number of other prescription drugs; check with a doctor before mixing treatments. Do not take Priligy if taking another SSRI; this may produce serious side effects.