Priligy alternatives: what actually works for premature ejaculation
If Priligy (dapoxetine) isn’t right for you, there are clear alternatives that many men use successfully. Some work fast, some need weeks to take effect, and some don’t involve pills at all. Here’s a straight, practical look at the main options so you can discuss them with your doctor.
Medications to know about
Short-acting SSRI: Dapoxetine is the only SSRI designed for quick use around sex. If it’s unavailable or causes side effects, longer‑acting SSRIs (sertraline, paroxetine, fluoxetine) are often used off-label. They can delay ejaculation but usually need daily dosing and 1–4 weeks to reach effect. Side effects can include nausea, fatigue, and sexual changes.
Topical anesthetics: Lidocaine-prilocaine creams or sprays numb the penis and work immediately. Apply as directed, wipe off before intercourse or use a condom to avoid numbing your partner. These are low-risk for systemic side effects and a good first step if you want quick results without daily pills.
Tramadol (off-label): A pain medicine that can delay ejaculation for some men. It works quickly, but it carries risks—drowsiness, nausea, dependence, and interactions with antidepressants. It’s not a first-line choice and should be used only under strict medical supervision.
PDE5 inhibitors (sildenafil, tadalafil): These are not primary treatments for premature ejaculation, but they can help men who have both PE and erectile dysfunction. Sometimes combining a PDE5 inhibitor with a behavioral technique or SSRI gives better results.
Non-drug strategies that help a lot
Behavioral methods: Stop-start and squeeze techniques are simple and evidence-backed. They teach better control over arousal and can be done alone or with a partner. Results vary, but many men see improvement within weeks.
Pelvic floor physiotherapy: Strengthening pelvic muscles with targeted exercises can improve control. A trained physiotherapist or pelvic health specialist can show the right moves and progressions.
Condoms: Thicker condoms reduce sensitivity and often delay ejaculation. They’re cheap, easy, and work immediately for many men.
Sex therapy and counseling: If anxiety, relationship issues, or performance pressure play a role, sex therapy can produce big gains. Therapists give tools to reduce anxiety and improve communication with partners.
How to choose? Think about speed, convenience, and risk. Want something that works that day? Try a topical anesthetic or discuss dapoxetine if available. Prefer a long-term fix and don’t mind daily meds? Talk to your doctor about an SSRI. Worried about side effects? Start with behavioral or pelvic floor work and condoms.
Always check with a clinician before combining treatments. Many meds interact (notably SSRIs, tramadol, and certain migraine drugs) and some health issues change what’s safe for you. Be direct with your doctor: say what you want to try, what worked or didn’t before, and any other meds you take. That keeps things safe and speeds up finding the right solution.