Premature Ejaculation
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Treatment for Premature Ejaculation
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Before you start a diagnosis, please read all of the information below.
Premature ejaculation is where the male ejaculates too quickly during sex. It affects 1 in 5 men and can occur in men of all ages. The exact cause of it is unknown. Men with premature ejaculation are more likely to experience less satisfaction in their sexual relationships, less frequent intercourse and anxiety during intercourse. It can also affect self-esteem, relationships, and moods.
Occasional premature ejaculation is common and nothing to worry about. If it occurs over half of the time, then it may be worthwhile getting help.
Possible symptoms experienced include:
- ejaculation occurring within two minutes of penetration
- feeling that ejaculation cannot be delayed
- finding sex frustrating or distressing
- reduced frequency of sex
- relationship difficulties
- low self-esteem
- embarrassment
- anxiety or depression
Possible treatment we may be able to prescribe if clinically appropriate:
Priligy 30mg taken a few hours before sex - Only 1 dose in 24 hours
- 3 Tablets (£14.71*)
- 6 Tablets (£26.48*)
As part of our safeguarding vulnerable people procedures, you will be required to show photo identification to the pharmacy dispenser when you collect your medication.
*Prices shown are cost price of the medication, taken from the British National Formulary 2018, and are given as a guideline. Pharmacies will add a dispensing fee to this which will vary considerably, so it is worthwhile phoning around to compare prices. The medication is paid for at your chosen pharmacy.
Please click on the medication above to read the Patient Information Leaflet for important information about Priligy.
Sometimes premature ejaculation is temporary and it gets better on its own.
- Increasing the frequency of sex may help.
- Some men find that masturbating before sex can delay their ejaculation.
- Using a condom may help to delay ejaculation as it reduces the sensation.
- Try the Squeeze Technique
- Use the Start-Stop Technique
- Psychological therapies or couples counseling may help
- Local anaesthetic creams or sprays: speak to your pharmacist for more advice.
You can also see your GP or attend your local sexual health clinic to discuss your options further.
The Squeeze Technique
This is will require practice and involves squeezing the head of the penis for up to 20 seconds during stimulation or intercourse. This reduces an erection and delays the ejaculation. It must be repeated three times before an orgasm.
The Start-Stop Technique
This also needs practice and involves stopping intercourse or stimulation just before ejaculation. Once the erection has reduced a little then intercourse can be continued. This should be repeated three times before an orgasm.
Priligy should only be taken by men who have been diagnosed with premature ejaculation as it's safety has not been established in men without premature ejaculation.
Priligy (Dapoxetine) is a short-acting Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI), specifically for the treatment of premature ejaculation. It works by increasing the level of the chemical serotonin in the nervous system which may lead to an increase in the time to ejaculation.
Priligy increases the time taken to ejaculate and can improve overall control of it. It is taken as and when needed one to three hours before sex. Some men notice an improvement straight away. However, others may need to take it a few times before they notice any changes.
Do not increase your dose unless advised by your doctor. The maximum dose is 60mg. Overuse of Priligy should be avoided as it can increase the risks of side effects.
Before you start the treatment, please read the manufacturers leaflet contained with the medication. This has further information and lists all the potential side effects.
How to take Priligy
Do not take more than one tablet in 24 hours. It should not be taken daily. It can be taken with or without food and should be taken with a full glass of water. The starting dose is 30mg. Take it one to three hours before you anticipate to have sex.
Priligy and alcohol
Do not drink alcohol with Priligy as it can increase your risk of fainting and increase the sedative effects.
Priligy and recreational drugs
Do NOT take recreational drugs with Priligy as it may lead to serious reactions.
Priligy and driving or using machinery
If Priligy causes you to feel faint or dizzy, then do not drive or operate machinery.
Never give your medication to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
Priligy should not be used by the following groups of men:
- under the age of 18
- age 65 and over
- those with an allergy to dapoxetine or any other ingredients in Priligy
- men using medication for erectile dysfunction
- those with a heart condition
- those with a tendency to faint
- those with bipolar disorder, severe depression or schizophrenia
- those with a bleeding or clotting disorder
- those who have problems with how their liver works
- those who have problems with the way their kidneys work
- those with uncontrolled epilepsy
- those with glaucoma
- those with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, the Lapp lactase deficiency or glucose−galactose malabsorption
Priligy should not be used by men taking the following medications:
- Anti-depressants or mood stabilisers
- Alpha-blockers
- Nitrates
- Tramadol used for pain
- Triptans used for migraines
- St John's Wort
- Antifungal tablets
- Anti-virals used for HIV treatment
- Erectile dysfunction treatment including sildenafil, tadalafil
- L−tryptophan used for sleep
- Certain antibiotics including erythromycin and clarithromycin
- Thioridazine used for schizophrenia
Most types of medicines can cause potential side effects. However, not everyone will experience them. The side effects often improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but if any of them continue or become troublesome then speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
Common side effects include:
- dizziness or feeling light-headed
- nausea
- feeling sweaty
- feeling confused
- a headache
Take care whilst taking Priligy as it can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting. It is important to be aware of this to reduce the likelihood of serious injury associated with a fall. Ensure you stay well hydrated with water whilst taking Priligy and avoid alcohol.
If you develop any distressing thoughts or feeling whilst taking Priligy then you should stop the treatment and speak to your GP or call NHS 111 for further advice.
Priligy can cause a postural drop in your blood pressure. When you get up after lying down or sitting then do so slowly, to reduce the risk of fainting.
If you experience any dizziness with Priligy then you should either lie down with your head lower than the rest of your body or sit down with your head between your knees. This should be done until the symptoms pass.
Signs to be aware of that warn you fainting may occur include feeling sick, sweaty, confused, dizziness, light-headed, or an abnormal heartbeat.
An itchy rash, swollen face or mouth, or difficulty in breathing, may be signs that you are allergic to the medication.
Please note that i-GP DOES NOT TREAT Medical Emergencies.
If you develop a sudden onset of any of the symptoms below then you must STOP the medication immediately and seek urgent medical advice. This could be from your GP, Out of Hours Service, Urgent Care Centre or NHS 111. Call an ambulance or go to A&E if the symptoms are severe.
- Wheeze
- Difficulty in Breathing
- Swelling of the eyelids, face or lips
- A rash particularly if affecting your entire body
If you develop any of the symptoms listed below whilst taking Priligy, then you must seek urgent medical advice (from your GP, Out of Hours Service, Urgent care centre, NHS 111). Call an ambulance or go to A&E if the symptoms are severe.
- fits or seizures
- lightheadedness when you stand up
- mood changes
- thoughts of suicide or harming yourself
The following websites can give you more advice about how to manage premature ejaculation:
Please use the following links to find your nearest Sexual Health/ GUM clinic.
You can call the national sexual health helpline free on 0300 123 7123 for further advice if you are worried.
SH:24 is a free online sexual health service, delivered in partnership with the NHS. They provide free test kits, information and advice - 24 hours a day.
What is abuse?
Abuse is anything another person does that's meant to cause harm. But it's not always easy to know what's abuse or what to do about it.
There are many types of abuse from physical, emotional, sexual, neglect or domestic. Abuse is always wrong and must be stopped. It is important to take the first step and seek help. If you are in immediate danger call 999.
You can find out more about the types of abuse and where you can access help on the YoungMinds Website.
Domestic violence and abuse
If you are experiencing domestic violence or know of someone that may be experiencing abuse that may need help or support then you can contact the following
- National Domestic Violence Helpline Free 24-hours a day on 0808 2000 247 Run in partnership between Women's Aid and Refuge.
- Men's Advice Line: confidential helpline for men experiencing domestic violence from a partner or ex-partner (or from other family members). Call freephone 0808 801 0327 Monday-Friday 9am-5pm
Help after rape or sexual assault
Please see the NHS website for further information.
- In an emergency call 999
- You can contact the non-emergency police number 101
- Or call NHS 111 for further advice
For specialist medical attention and sexual violence support, you would need to be seen at a sexual assault referral centre (SARC). You can find your nearest one here.
Childline
Childline is there to help anyone under 19 in the UK with any issue they’re going through. Whether it’s something big or small, or are worried that you may be going through abuse, their trained counsellors are there to support you.
Childline is free, confidential and available any time, day or night. You can talk to them:
- by calling 0800 1111
- by email
- through a 121 Webchat
If you are worried about a child, don't wait until you are certain. If you have any concerns or suspicions, contact the NSPCC free helpline service to speak to an NSPCC counsellor 24/7 or report your concern online here.
If you think a child is in immediate danger don't delay – call the police on 999.
Modern Slavery Helpline
If you think you are a victim of modern slavery/human trafficking contact the modern slavery helpline. They can help you to understand what is available including information, advice and, ways to access government-funded support. The Modern Slavery Helpline is confidential, but, if you don't want to give your name, that is fine. Find out more here.
Call free 24/7 on 08000 121 700 to get help, report a suspicion or seek advice.
Female genital mutilation (FGM)
FGM is abuse and illegal under the UK law. All girls and women have the right to a life free from pain, period problems and difficulties with childbirth that are caused by female genital mutilation.
Female genital mutilation, female circumcision or ‘cutting’ may cause serious health and emotional consequences that last a lifetime. You can stop it. For advice, support or to report it, call the free 24-hour anonymous FGM helpline on 0800 028 3550. Find out more about it here.
Protecting young people from sexual
exploitation
It is important that young people are kept safe from sexual exploitation. Child sexual exploitation doesn't always involve physical contact and can happen online. It can be stopped and it is everyone's responsibility to report any concerns.
Child sexual exploitation is a hidden crime and can be difficult to identify. Young people often trust their abuser and don't understand that they're being abused. They may depend on their abuser or be too scared to tell anyone what's happening. You can find out more about here.
If you are worried about a child then contact the NSPCC trained helpline counsellors for 24/7 help, advice and support on 0808 800 5000 or email help@nspcc.org.uk
Watch the NSPCC video sharing the story of a young person who has been groomed and sexually exploited.