Reviewed by Dr. Arjun Mehta, PharmD — Head Pharmacist. Updated May 2025.
Men affected
Defined PE
Improve on Rx
FDA-related options
Premature ejaculation (PE) is the most common sexual problem in men, affecting up to one in three at some point in life. It is defined clinically as ejaculation that consistently occurs within about one minute of penetration and that causes distress for the person or their partner.
PE often has a psychological component (anxiety, performance pressure, relationship stress) but it can also be driven by biology — particularly variations in serotonin signalling. Both are treatable, often together: medication slows ejaculation, while behavioural techniques and counselling address the psychological side.
Daily SSRI used off-label for PE. Slower onset but well-studied. From $18.
Daily SSRI used off-label for PE. Slower onset but well-studied. From $18.
Topical anaesthetic applied 10–15 minutes before sex. Reduces sensation, delays ejaculation.
Stop-start and squeeze techniques. Often combined with medication for best results.
Yes. Dapoxetine, sertraline and other SSRIs are prescription-only. We dispense against a valid prescription verified by our pharmacist.
Some men have both PE and ED. Combination therapy (a PDE5 inhibitor with dapoxetine) is well-studied. Your prescriber will advise on what is suitable for you.

/our-pharmacists/arjun-mehta/ — Reviewed May 2025
This guide is reviewed every 12 months or sooner when clinical guidance changes. If you have a specific medical question, call our pharmacist team — we answer the phone, not a bot.