Dapoxetine: UK Information Guide
Summary
UK guide to dapoxetine for premature ejaculation — how the short-acting SSRI works, as-needed dosing, fainting risk, alcohol warning, combination with ED medicines and FAQs.
Reviewed by the Kamcenuk medical content team · Last updated
Introduction
Dapoxetine is a prescription medicine used to treat premature ejaculation (PE) in adult men. It belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) group, but unlike SSRIs used for depression it is taken on an as-needed basis shortly before sexual activity rather than every day. It is sometimes prescribed alongside a PDE5 inhibitor where both conditions are present, but only under medical supervision. This UK-focused guide explains what Dapoxetine is, how it works, how it is usually taken, common and serious side effects, safety points, and frequently asked questions. It is general information only — not personal medical advice.
What Is Dapoxetine?
Dapoxetine is a prescription medicine used to treat premature ejaculation (PE) in adult men. It belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) group, but unlike SSRIs used for depression it is taken on an as-needed basis shortly before sexual activity rather than every day. It is sometimes prescribed alongside a PDE5 inhibitor where both conditions are present, but only under medical supervision.
It is available as standalone products (e.g. Duratia 60mg, Duratia 90mg) and in combination with sildenafil (e.g. Cenforce D).
How Does It Work?
Dapoxetine temporarily increases serotonin available between nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Serotonin plays a part in the nerve signalling that controls the ejaculatory reflex. By slowing serotonin reuptake, dapoxetine can help delay ejaculation and improve control. Because it is short-acting, it is designed to be used before anticipated sexual activity rather than to build up in the body over time.
How Is It Usually Taken?
Take dapoxetine exactly as advised by your doctor and the patient information leaflet. It is generally swallowed whole with a glass of water a few hours before sexual activity, and is taken only when needed rather than daily. Do not take more than one dose in a 24-hour period. To reduce the chance of feeling faint, do not drink alcohol and stand up slowly after sitting or lying down.
Possible Side Effects
Like all medicines, products containing this active ingredient can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.
More commonly reported effects can include:
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Drowsiness or tiredness
- Dry mouth
Serious effects require urgent medical attention. Stop and seek help immediately if you experience:
- Fainting or feeling you are about to faint — sit or lie down at once and seek urgent medical help
- Signs of serotonin syndrome (agitation, confusion, fast heartbeat, fever, shivering or muscle twitching)
- New or worsening thoughts of self-harm, suicide or significant mood changes
- Seizures (fits)
- Severe allergic reaction
This is not a complete list. Always read the patient information leaflet and report concerns to a doctor, pharmacist or via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.
Important Safety Information
- An SSRI-class medicine: must not be combined with MAOIs, or with other serotonergic medicines such as other antidepressants, lithium, tramadol, migraine triptans or St John’s Wort, because of the risk of serotonin syndrome.
- Not suitable for men with certain significant heart conditions, including some types of heart failure, heart-rhythm problems or a history of fainting.
- Avoid alcohol while taking dapoxetine, as it can increase dizziness, drowsiness and the risk of fainting.
- Tell your doctor about all other medicines, including those for erectile dysfunction.
- Intended for adult men only — not for women, children or the elderly outside a doctor’s direction.
- Tell your doctor about any history of depression, anxiety, mania, bipolar disorder, epilepsy, or kidney or liver problems before starting.
- Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how dapoxetine affects you.
Storage
Store in the original packaging at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture and out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date.
Related Products
The following products contain this active ingredient (or related combinations). This list is for neutral navigation only and does not imply suitability for any individual.
- Duratia 60mg — dapoxetine 60 mg
- Duratia 90mg — dapoxetine 90 mg
- Cenforce D — sildenafil + dapoxetine combination
Final Takeaway
Dapoxetine is a real medicine with specific uses, benefits and risks. Key points are medical assessment before use, awareness of side effects and interactions, and reading the official patient information leaflet. This article is for general information only and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any medication. Always read the patient information leaflet.
Frequently asked questions
Is dapoxetine taken every day?+
No. Unlike SSRIs used for depression, dapoxetine is normally taken only when needed, a few hours before anticipated sexual activity, and not more than once in any 24-hour period.
Can dapoxetine be taken with erectile-dysfunction medicines?+
It is sometimes prescribed together with a PDE5 inhibitor when both PE and ED are present, but only under a doctor’s supervision because of possible interactions and a higher chance of dizziness or fainting.
Why should I avoid alcohol with dapoxetine?+
Alcohol can add to dapoxetine’s effects and increase dizziness, drowsiness and the risk of fainting or injury.
What should I do if I feel faint?+
Sit or lie down immediately and seek urgent medical help if fainting occurs or feels imminent.
Is this medical advice?+
No. General information only. Use only under medical supervision.
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