Priligy (Dapoxetine)
Priligy is the brand name for dapoxetine, a short-acting SSRI specifically approved for on-demand treatment of premature ejaculation in adult men. Tablets in 30mg and 60mg, taken 1-3 hours before anticipated sexual activity.
- Active ingredients
- Dapoxetine
- Manufacturer
- Menarini
- Dosage forms
- tablet
- Available dosages
- 30mg, 60mg
- Category
- Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
What is it?
Priligy is the brand name for dapoxetine, the first oral medication specifically approved for the on-demand treatment of premature ejaculation in adult men. It was first approved in Europe in 2009 and is currently marketed by Menarini in many regulated markets across Europe, Asia and Latin America. Priligy is not approved in the United States. The product addresses one of the most common male sexual complaints with a pharmacology distinct from chronic-use SSRIs.
Active ingredients
Each Priligy tablet contains dapoxetine hydrochloride at 30mg or 60mg. Dapoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor specifically engineered for rapid absorption and short duration of action, allowing on-demand rather than daily dosing. Unlike chronic SSRIs, the molecule reaches peak concentration within one hour and is largely cleared within several hours, supporting use immediately before anticipated sexual activity without between-dose accumulation.
Forms and dosages
Priligy is supplied as round, light grey to grey blue (30mg) or light blue (60mg) film-coated tablets. The recommended starting dose is 30mg taken approximately 1 to 3 hours before anticipated sexual activity. If response is insufficient and side effects are tolerable, the prescribing physician may increase the dose to 60mg. Maximum dosing frequency is once every 24 hours. Tablets should be taken with at least one full glass of water and may be taken with or without food.
Indications
Priligy is indicated for the on-demand treatment of premature ejaculation in adult men aged 18 to 64 years with a confirmed diagnosis. Diagnosis typically requires a personal history of consistently rapid ejaculation (within approximately one minute of penetration), associated personal distress or interpersonal difficulty, and absence of other causes. The medication is not indicated for general sexual performance enhancement, anxiety, depression, or any female indication. According to the prescribing information, treatment should be evaluated after several attempts.
How it works
Ejaculation is controlled by serotonergic pathways in the central nervous system. Increasing serotonin signalling delays the ejaculatory reflex. Dapoxetine selectively blocks the serotonin transporter on presynaptic neurons, raising synaptic serotonin concentration. Its rapid kinetics — peak plasma at one hour, half-life of about 1.5 hours — produce a clinically useful delay of ejaculation in the period 1 to 3 hours after a dose. According to clinical trials, intravaginal ejaculatory latency time increases 2 to 3 fold versus placebo.
Frequently asked questions
How quickly does Priligy work? ▾
Priligy reaches peak plasma concentration within approximately one hour after dosing. The clinically useful effect window is 1 to 3 hours after the tablet is taken. According to the prescribing information, the medication should therefore be taken 1 to 3 hours before anticipated sexual activity rather than immediately before. The effect wears off within several hours due to the molecule's short half-life, distinguishing Priligy from chronic-use SSRIs that require daily dosing for full effect.
How is Priligy different from chronic SSRIs like sertraline? ▾
Both contain SSRI compounds, but the kinetics and intended use are completely different. Priligy (dapoxetine) has a half-life of about 1.5 hours, supporting on-demand use 1-3 hours before sexual activity. Chronic SSRIs like sertraline (Zoloft) have half-lives of 26 hours or more and are taken daily for several weeks before full effect develops. Off-label use of chronic SSRIs for premature ejaculation requires daily dosing rather than on-demand use, with a different side effect profile.
Can Priligy be combined with Viagra or Cialis? ▾
The combination of Priligy with PDE5 inhibitors (sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil) is sometimes used in men with both premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction, after specialist evaluation. The combination is not formally approved everywhere and may increase the risk of orthostatic hypotension, dizziness and syncope. According to clinical guidelines, this combination should only be initiated under medical supervision, with attention to cardiovascular status, and not as a self-medication strategy.
What are the most common side effects? ▾
Common adverse effects include nausea, dizziness, headache, diarrhoea, insomnia and fatigue, particularly during the first doses. Vasovagal episodes (presyncope or syncope) have been reported, especially in volume-depleted patients. According to the prescribing information, Priligy should be taken with at least one full glass of water, and patients should remain seated or lying down if dizziness occurs. Persistent or severe side effects should be reported to the prescribing physician.
Should I take Priligy every day? ▾
No. Priligy is designed for on-demand use, not daily use. According to the prescribing information, the maximum dosing frequency is one tablet per 24 hours, and the medication should be taken only when sexual activity is anticipated. Unlike chronic SSRIs used for depression, Priligy's short half-life and rapid clearance mean there is no benefit from continuous daily dosing for premature ejaculation, and side effects could increase without therapeutic gain.
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The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.