Premature Ejaculation Treatment

Premature ejaculation (PE) typically occurs when a man ejaculates less than two minutes after penetration. This can cause stress, anxiety, and may impact relationships. While discussing PE can be uncomfortable, it is common and treatable. What is considered “premature” is personal and can depend on individual and partner satisfaction—if both partners are content, there may be no need for treatment.

Both psychological and physiological factors can contribute to PE.

Psychological Causes:

• Predisposition
• Reactive depression
• Stress
• Relationship issues
• Performance anxiety
• History of sexual abuse

Physiological Causes:

• Recreational drug use
• Hypersensitivity
• Obesity
• Thyroid problems
• Low testosterone levels
• Prostate or urethral issues
• Nervous system conditions, such as multiple sclerosis

This service is suitable if you:

• Are aged between 18 and 65
• Are male
• Are experiencing symptoms of premature ejaculation

This service may not be suitable if you:

• Are younger than 18 or older than 65
• Are female
• Have significant kidney or liver disease
• Are taking specific types of antidepressant medication (SSRI or SNRI)
• Have a history of:
  • Bipolar disorder, mania, or severe depression
  • Heart conditions (e.g., heart failure, heart attack, arrhythmias, or valve issues)
  • Epilepsy
  • Syncope or fainting due to low blood pressure
  • Glaucoma
• Use recreational drugs, which may cause serious interactions with this treatment

We offer two main treatment options for PE, subject to clinical suitability:

• Oral Tablets: Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) that are taken 1-3 hours before sexual activity. This treatment should not be used more than once every 24 hours.
• Anaesthetic (Numbing) Cream: Applied to the head of the penis about 20 minutes before intercourse. This cream may numb nerve endings to delay ejaculation.

This numbing cream is applied to the head of the penis, numbing the nerve fibers to help delay ejaculation. Apply 20 minutes before sex and wash off excess cream just before intercourse.

Important Notes:

• Potential Side Effects: Skin irritation, numbness for both partners.
• Compatibility: The cream may damage latex condoms.
• Off-Licence Use: While not specifically licensed for PE, it is commonly used for this purpose.

This numbing cream is applied to the head of the penis, numbing the nerve fibers to help delay ejaculation. Apply 20 minutes before sex and wash off excess cream just before intercourse.

Important Notes:

• • Potential Side Effects: Skin irritation, numbness for both partners.
  • Compatibility: The cream may damage latex condoms.
  • Off-Licence Use: While not specifically licensed for PE, it is commonly used for this purpose.

Medications are typically licensed for specific uses by the Irish Health Products Regulatory Authority. However, some medications have proven effective for additional uses beyond those stated in their license. For example, anaesthetic creams are licensed to numb skin for minor surgical procedures but are also used to manage PE.

When completing the medical assessment questionnaire, disclose all medications, including over-the-counter drugs. This is essential for safe prescription, as PE tablets may interact significantly with other medications.

• One Tablet Only in 24 Hours: Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs while on this medication due to potential interactions.
• Patient Information Leaflet: For full details, read the leaflet included with your medication before use.
• Seek Medical Advice: If you experience concerning side effects, discontinue use and consult a doctor.

For further guidance, please refer to reliable resources like the Sexual Advice Association.