Vriligy (dapoxetine) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) predominantly used to delay ejaculation in men aged 18 to 64 who experience premature ejaculation.

All SSRI treatments can be used to treat premature ejaculation (PE), but Vriligy is specifically designed and marketed for it. It has several advantages that make it more suitable than other SSRIs:

• It is remarkably fast-acting and short-lasting compared to other SSRIs;
• It can be used as-needed, rather than taken daily over the long-term;
• As-needed use significantly reduces risk and severity of side effects.

PE is defined as ejaculation which occurs within one minute or less of beginning intercourse. It is typically not a health concern, but it can cause mental distress for those experiencing it. It is estimated to affect around 20 to 30 percent of men around the world, causing anxiety, frustration, and unsatisfying sexual encounters.

Vriligy offers a solution. Taken as-needed prior to intercourse, this medication adds several minutes before ejaculation.

Treatment overview

Vriligy comes in tablets of 30 mg or 60 mg strengths. The lowest effective dose is typically preferred to reduce risk of side effects, but the higher dose does tend to delay ejaculation further. If no serious side effects are experienced at 30 mg doses, many men start taking 60 mg doses.

Results are difficult to quantify as there are many variables between men. On average:

• The average man with PE ejaculates around 1 minute after intercourse begins.
• The average man without PE ejaculates 4 to 8 minutes after intercourse begins.
• Men taking 30 mg of Vriligy average 3.1 minutes after intercourse begins.
• Men taking 60 mg of Vriligy average 3.6 minutes after intercourse begins.

Some men experience significantly better results than above, particularly when the PE is largely a result of mental or emotional issues rather than physical. It also sometimes happens that after PE is successfully resolved for a time with Vriligy, PE is no longer an problem even without use of the medication. This does not happen in every case, however.

To use the medication:

• Take one dose 1 to 3 hours prior to anticipated sexual activity. Effects peak 1 to 3 hours after administration; this varies by individual and once effects are known timing can be adjusted.
• Peak effects typically last 4 to 5 hours, but this too can vary by individual, and may last up to 24 hours.
• Do not exceed 60 mg in a 24 hour period; in larger doses SSRIs can cause impotence.
• The medication may be taken with or without food according to preference; taking on a full stomach may delay peak effects but may ease gastrointestinal side effects.

Recreational drugs, such as alcohol or marijuana, may dampen Vriligy's effects and worsen side effects; use with caution until effects are determined.

Vriligy does not produce significant effects for all men; if the treatment isn't producing good results, speak with a doctor about alternative options. There are many available.

Precautions & Side Effects

At lower doses Vriligy is unlikely to produce serious side effects. Side effects that are experienced are typically mild:

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

The above are not cause for concern unless severe enough to be disruptive. If taking 60 mg doses, reducing dosage to 30 mg may help.

Like all SSRIs, there is a chance Vriligy 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.

Vriligy can interact with numerous other medications, including over-the-counter varieties. Always double-check with a doctor or pharmacist before mixing other treatments with Vriligy.