Dapoxetine for Premature Ejaculation: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Price

Dapoxetine is a fast-acting prescription medication used to treat premature ejaculation (PE) in men. It belongs to the class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and is specifically designed for on-demand use to delay ejaculation and improve control during sexual activity.

Unlike traditional SSRIs used for depression (which take weeks to work), dapoxetine acts within 1–3 hours and is eliminated quickly from the body, making it ideal for short-term use prior to intercourse.

It’s often sold under brand names such as Priligy, Duratia, Dapox, and Poxet, among others.

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Why Is Dapoxetine Prescribed?

Premature ejaculation is one of the most common male sexual disorders, affecting up to 1 in 3 men globally. It’s defined as ejaculation that happens too quickly (usually within 1–2 minutes of penetration) and causes distress, frustration, or avoidance of intimacy.

Dapoxetine is the only oral medication specifically approved in several countries for treating PE in men aged 18–64 years. It works by modulating serotonin levels in the brain, helping to increase the time to ejaculation and improve sexual satisfaction.

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How Dapoxetine Works

Dapoxetine increases the activity of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in delaying ejaculation. By blocking its reuptake in the brain, dapoxetine enhances serotonergic activity, which in turn helps:

• Increase latency time (time to ejaculation)
• Improve control over ejaculation
• Reduce distress and anxiety related to sexual performance

Unlike daily SSRIs like fluoxetine or paroxetine (sometimes used off-label), dapoxetine is designed for on-demand use—usually taken 1–3 hours before sexual activity.

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Dosage

Factor	Details
Standard Starting Dose	30 mg, taken 1–3 hours before sex
Maximum Dose	60 mg (if 30 mg is ineffective and tolerated)
Frequency	Not more than once in 24 hours
Administration	Take with water, with or without food
Avoid	Alcohol (increases side effects), grapefruit

Doctors typically begin treatment with 30 mg to evaluate tolerance and effectiveness. The dose may be increased to 60 mg only under medical supervision.

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Common Side Effects of Dapoxetine

Most side effects are mild and fade over time:

• Nausea (most common)
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Insomnia or fatigue

To reduce dizziness or fainting (a known side effect), always take dapoxetine with a full glass of water and avoid standing quickly after use.

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Serious Side Effects

• Fainting or loss of consciousness
• Irregular heartbeat
• Seizures
• Severe mood changes
• Allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)

Stop using the drug and consult a doctor if these occur.

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Warnings and Precautions

Before taking dapoxetine, inform your doctor if you:

• Have heart problems (e.g., arrhythmia, heart failure)
• Have depression, bipolar disorder, or mental health issues
• Have a history of seizures
• Take other SSRIs, MAOIs, or antidepressants
• Have liver or kidney impairment

Drug Interactions to Avoid

Avoid combining dapoxetine with:

• Other SSRIs or SNRIs
• MAO inhibitors
• Nitrates
• Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir)
• Alcohol (increases dizziness and fainting risk)

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Dapoxetine vs Other Treatments for Premature Ejaculation

Treatment	Type	Onset Time	Duration	Use Case
Dapoxetine	SSRI (fast)	1–3 hours	~6 hours	On-demand PE treatment
SSRIs (Fluoxetine)	SSRI	1–2 weeks	Daily	Off-label, not fast-acting
Topical sprays/gels	Local numbing	10–15 mins	Short	Reduce sensitivity locally
Behavioral therapy	Psychological	Varies	Long-term	Helps with control/technique
Tramadol (off-label)	Opioid	~1 hour	Moderate	Risk of dependency, not ideal

Dapoxetine Price: How Much Does It Cost?

The price of Dapoxetine varies depending on the brand, dosage (30 mg or 60 mg), country of purchase, and quantity per pack. Since it is sold under multiple brand names like Priligy, Poxet, Duratia, and Dapox, the cost can differ widely.

Estimated Price Range:

Brand Name	Dosage	Pack Size	Estimated Price Range (USD)
(brand)	30 mg	6 tablets	$60 – $90
(brand)	60 mg	6 tablets	$75 – $110
Generic Dapoxetine	30 mg	10 tablets	$20 – $35
Generic Dapoxetine	60 mg	10 tablets	$25 – $45

Tip: Prices are generally lower when buying larger packs (e.g., 30 or 60 tablets), especially from licensed online pharmacies. Always ensure the source is certified and requires a prescription.

Factors That Influence Dapoxetine Pricing:

• Brand vs. Generic: Generic versions are significantly more affordable than the branded.
• Online vs. In-Store: Licensed online pharmacies often offer discounts and bulk pricing, but always prioritize safety.

Where to Buy Dapoxetine Safely

To avoid counterfeit drugs and health risks:

• Buy from licensed pharmacies only, either local or trusted online platforms
• Ensure the site requires a valid prescription
• Look for certified pharmacies
• If ordering online, choose pharmacies with reviews, real contact information, and secure payment gateways

Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes only. Dapoxetine is a prescription medication and should be taken only under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. Do not self-medicate.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How long does dapoxetine take to work?

Typically within 1 to 3 hours of ingestion.

Can I take dapoxetine daily?

It is intended for on-demand use, not daily use.

Is dapoxetine the same as Viagra?

No. Dapoxetine treats premature ejaculation, while Viagra (sildenafil) treats erectile dysfunction.

Can I combine dapoxetine with ED medications?

Only under a doctor’s supervision. In some cases, doctors prescribe dapoxetine + sildenafil, but combining them without medical advice can be dangerous.