Open Press Room

A new drug can put an end to premature ejaculation during sexual intercourse.

A new drug known as dapoxetine can extend the duration of intercourse by three to four times.

It is believed that up to a third of the male population has problems with premature ejaculation. However, it will still be some time before the drug is available in pharmacies.

Premature ejaculation

The US FDA is reviewing an application for dapoxetine, which was developed by Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceutical, a Johnson and Johnson company.

Dapoxetine is chemically similar to a family of antidepressants called SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors).

These types of antidepressants are known to have an impact on ejaculation.

Studies of dapoxetine have included 2,614 men between the ages of 18 and 77 with premature ejaculation, who maintained monogamous sexual relationships for more than six months.

Each received 30mg or 60mg of dapoxetine or a placebo for 12 weeks.

Dapoxetine increased the duration of intercourse. This beneficial effect occurred after the first dose and increased over the study period.

Lead researcher Dr Jon Pryor, a urologist at the University of Minnesota, said: “The impact premature ejaculation can have on men and their partners can be devastating for a relationship and, currently, there are no truly optimal therapies for premature ejaculation.”

Professor Alan White, professor of men’s health at Leeds Metropolitan University and chairman of the Men’s Health Forum, said: “This is certainly a problem that affects many men - as many as one in three or four.

“It’s one of those hidden conditions that can cause terrible problems in a relationship and a great deal of embarrassment.

“Men are often reluctant to discuss it with their doctor and if a medication became available, it might make them more willing to go and discuss the problem with their doctor.”

He said some cases might be treatable with this new drug, but stressed that counseling was also important because psychological reasons may also be involved.

“Talking can help. Hopefully this drug will also be able to help some men with this terrible condition.”