Premature ejaculation

Medical information

Written and reviewed by a team of doctors. Dr Fox is regulated by the CQC & GPhC.

Premature ejaculation (PE) is defined as ejaculation in less than 2 minutes from penetration. Many men experience an issue at some time in their life of feeling that they 'come' too soon. With premature ejaculation there is usually ejaculation with minimal sexual stimulation, before the man wants, and this can lead to relationship difficulties. It can be treated by psychological support, direct physical creams to reduce sensitivity, and by dapoxetine (Priligy).

Priligy was the branded name for dapoxetine. The patent for Priligy ended in October 2025 and the company decided to end production. A generic version of dapoxetine is now available. It works in the same way, has the same amount of active ingredient, comes in the same doses and is just as effective as Priligy.

Dapoxetine (Priligy) tablets are for PE in men aged 18 to 64 years.

Dapoxetine (Priligy) delays ejaculation and increases control.

Taking dapoxetine (Priligy)

There are two strengths of dapoxetine tablets: 30mg and 60mg.

Start with 30mg tablets and only increase to 60mg if required.

Tablets are taken 1-3 hours before intercourse as an on-demand treatment before anticipated sexual activity. Swallow tablets whole with a full glass of water. The tablets can be taken with or without food.

Do not drink grapefruit juice in the 24 hours before taking dapoxetine.

Do not take this medicine more than once every 24 hours and not every day.

If dapoxetine causes dizziness or lightheadedness, have a drink of water and sit with your head between your knees or lie down with your legs raised on a cushion until feeling better. Take no further doses without advice from a doctor.

Effectiveness of dapoxetine (Priligy)

Approximately one in three men report that they have a good or very good response to dapoxetine. Average times to ejaculation normally increase from around 1 minute to 3 to 3.5 minutes. Results are slightly better with the higher strength tablet, but there is also an increase in side effects.

Who can benefit from dapoxetine (Priligy)

Dapoxetine is likely to be of benefit if:

• The time to ejaculation after penetration is less than two minutes.
• Ejaculation occurs with minimal sexual stimulation before, on, or shortly after penetration and before the patient wishes.
• Marked personal distress or relationship difficulties as a consequence of PE.
• Poor control over ejaculation.
• A history of premature ejaculation in the majority of intercourse attempts over the prior 6 months.

Who should NOT take dapoxetine (Priligy)

Dapoxetine should NOT be taken by men who have:

• Heart problems, such as heart failure or problems with the heart rhythm.
• A history of fainting or dizzy episodes due to low blood pressure or are taking medication which may lower their blood pressure.
• Epilepsy.
• Had a mental health problem such as severe depression, mania (symptoms include feeling over-excited, irritable, or not being able to think clearly), bipolar disorder (symptoms include serious mood swings between mania and depression), or schizophrenia (a psychiatric disease).
• Moderate or severe liver or kidney problems.
• A history of bleeding or blood clotting problems.
• A risk of high pressure in the eye (glaucoma).
• Use of recreational drugs such as ecstasy, LSD, narcotics, or benzodiazepines.
• Excessive alcohol usage.
• 65 years of age or older.

Dapoxetine (Priligy) with other medicines

Some medicines should NOT be taken with dapoxetine. Checks are included in the online consultation. For a full list of interacting medicines see the manufacturer's patient information leaflet.

Side effects of dapoxetine (Priligy)

As with all medicines, side effects are possible.

Common side effects of dapoxetine (may affect up to 1 in 10 men):

• Dizziness.
• Headache.
• Low blood pressure/fainting.
• Altered mood.
• Feeling numb or having 'pins and needles'.
• Difficulty getting or keeping an erection.
• Sweating more than normal or flushing.
• Diarrhoea, constipation, or having wind.
• Stomach pain, indigestion, bloating, nausea, or being sick.
• Problems sleeping or strange dreams.
• Feeling tired or sleepy, yawning.
• Blocked nose (nasal congestion).
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Shaking or trembling.
• Lower interest in sex.
• Ringing in the ears.
• Blurred vision.
• Dry mouth.

If you develop mood changes, fits (seizures), fainting, lightheadedness, thoughts of suicide or self harm, then stop the medication and consult with your doctor immediately.

Alternative treatments for PE

Dapoxetine is the only medicine licensed in the UK for the treatment of premature ejaculation.

Some doctors prescribe other SSRI (Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) antidepressant medication to treat PE. This is 'off label' prescribing as it is outside the licence for use of those medications.

It is also possible to use extra thick condoms or anaesthetic creams to reduce penile sensitivity and stimulation, so helping delay ejaculation. These can be bought from pharmacies without a prescription.

PE is associated with stress and anxiety and can lead to relationship difficulties. Psychological treatments can be a good option for some men.

Read NHS - Ejaculation problems and FAQs: Priligy (dapoxetine) and premature ejaculation for further advice.

Dr Fox pharmacy supplies premature ejaculation medication on prescription - you are required to answer a short medical questionnaire before your order can be completed.

Authored 23 April 2014 by Dr Tony Steele
MB ChB Sheffield University 1983. Former hospital doctor and GP. GMC no. 2825328

Reviewed by Dr A. Wood, Dr C. Pugh, Dr B. Babor
Last reviewed 14 November 2025
Last updated 18 September 2026
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