Premature ejaculation is the most common problem affecting the sexual health of men. It is a condition where a man ejaculates too quickly during sexual intercourse or even before it. This condition can be embarrassing and frustrating for both partners, and often leads to anxiety and stress.
Fortunately, there are several medications available that can help men overcome this problem. In this article, we will discuss different types of premature ejaculation medicine and how they work.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
SSRIs are medications commonly used to treat depression and anxiety. They work by blocking the reuptake of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in mood regulation, sleep, appetite, and sexual function.
One of the side effects of SSRIs is delayed ejaculation. This means that men taking SSRIs may take longer to ejaculate during sexual intercourse. This side effect has led to the use of SSRIs as a treatment for premature ejaculation.
Paroxetine, fluoxetine, and sertraline are some of the most common SSRIs prescribed for premature ejaculation. These medications are usually taken daily, and their effects may take a few weeks to be noticeable.
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are another type of antidepressant medication that can be used to treat premature ejaculation. TCAs work by inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain.
Clomipramine is the most commonly prescribed TCA for the treatment of premature ejaculation. This medication has been shown to be effective in delaying ejaculation in men. However, its side effects can be severe, including nausea, drowsiness, and erectile dysfunction. Therefore, it is not recommended as a first-line treatment for premature ejaculation.
Topical Anesthetics
Topical anesthetics are medications that work by numbing the penis. These medications are usually applied to the penis before sexual intercourse, and they help to delay ejaculation.
Lidocaine and prilocaine are the most commonly used topical anesthetics for premature ejaculation. These medications are available as sprays, creams, and gels. They work by desensitizing the nerves in the penis, thus delaying the ejaculation process.
Topical anesthetics are easy to use and have minimal side effects. However, they can cause numbness and reduced sensation in the penis, which can lead to difficulty achieving an erection or reaching orgasm.
Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) Inhibitors
PDE5 inhibitors are medications used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). Erectile dysfunction is a common problem in men who suffer from premature ejaculation. PDE5 inhibitors work by increasing blood flow to the penis, thus improving erectile function.
Sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil are the most commonly prescribed PDE5 inhibitors. These medications can be used to treat both premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction. However, their primary effect is on erectile dysfunction, and their ability to delay ejaculation is limited.
Dapoxetine
Dapoxetine is the only medication specifically approved for the treatment of premature ejaculation. It is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that is specifically designed to help men with premature ejaculation.
Dapoxetine works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. This helps to delay ejaculation and improve sexual performance. Dapoxetine is taken about 1-3 hours before sexual intercourse, and its effects can last for up to 12 hours.
Dapoxetine has been shown to be effective in delaying ejaculation and improving sexual function in men. It has minimal side effects and is generally well-tolerated. However, it may not be suitable for men with certain medical conditions, such as liver disease.
Conclusion
Premature ejaculation is a common problem affecting the sexual health of men. Fortunately, there are several medicines available that can help to manage this condition.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), topical anesthetics, phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, and dapoxetine are some of the most commonly used medications for premature ejaculation.
It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication. They can help to determine the right medication for you and help manage any side effects. With the help of medication and other strategies, men can take control of their sexual health and improve their sexual performance.