Priligy (dapoxetine) is a short-acting SSRI made for premature ejaculation. If it isn’t right for you—or you can’t get it—there are several alternatives that work in different ways. Below I break down practical options, how fast they act, pros and cons, and what to check with your doctor.
Topical numbing creams or sprays (lidocaine or prilocaine) reduce penile sensitivity. Apply 10–15 minutes before sex, wash off if needed, and expect effect within 10–20 minutes. Pros: fast, no daily pill. Cons: possible reduced partner sensation and skin irritation.
On-demand PDE5 inhibitors like sildenafil or tadalafil don’t directly delay ejaculation but can help men with erectile issues and improve control when used together with behavioral techniques. They act in 30–60 minutes. Pros: treats erectile problems too. Cons: need doctor clearance for heart meds and blood pressure issues.
Daily oral antidepressants (sertraline, paroxetine, fluoxetine, clomipramine) are used off-label to delay ejaculation. They usually take 1–4 weeks to work. Pros: no need to apply creams. Cons: daily dosing, sexual side effects, interactions, and withdrawal risk.
Tramadol is an opioid that sometimes delays ejaculation. It works within a few hours but has addiction risk and side effects. This is a last-resort option and only under strict medical supervision.
Behavioral methods are low-risk and free. Techniques like stop-start, squeeze, and pelvic floor exercises take practice but can give lasting control without drugs. Combining these with a partner’s cooperation improves results.
Try simple steps at home before drugs: practice the stop-start method during masturbation — stop stimulation 10–20 seconds before climax, wait until urge drops, then start again. Squeeze technique means pressing the area below the head for 5–10 seconds until the urge eases. For pelvic floor training, do 3 sets of 10 Kegels twice daily: tighten for 3–5 seconds, relax for 5 seconds. Track progress in a short diary: note timing, triggers, and what helps. Good communication with your partner—agreeing on pauses and positions—makes these methods much more effective. If you try them for 6–8 weeks without improvement, see a sexual health specialist right away.
First, talk to your doctor about medical causes like prostatitis, thyroid issues, or medication side effects. Your choice depends on how often you need treatment (every time vs. long-term), other health problems, and whether you want immediate effect or a steady long-term approach.
If you need quick effects for occasional use, topical anesthetics or on-demand dapoxetine (where legal) are practical. If you want a long-term solution and don’t mind daily meds, an SSRI may work better. If erectile problems are part of the issue, add a PDE5 inhibitor.
Watch for side effects: topical creams may numb partners, SSRIs can lower libido or cause nausea, and tramadol carries addiction risk. Always check drug interactions—especially with nitrates, MAO inhibitors, and some heart medications.
Therapy with a sexual health specialist or physiotherapist can be a game changer. Combining medical and behavioral treatments often gives the best results. Ask your doctor for a plan that fits your health and relationship.
