Premature ejaculation is common and treatable. For many people, simple behavioural techniques and targeted exercises help a great deal. Some may benefit from prescription tablets such as dapoxetine.
PE vs ED: how to tell the difference
PE refers to ejaculation that happens sooner than desired and causes distress for you or your partner. Erectile dysfunction involves difficulty getting or keeping an erection.
Dapoxetine medication: eligibility, dosing, cautions
Dapoxetine is a short acting prescription tablet used as needed before sex. A common approach is 30 mg taken one to three hours beforehand, with review to see if 60 mg is appropriate.
It is not suitable for everyone. People with significant heart problems, certain mental health conditions, or those using specific medicines may be advised not to use it.
Online consultation & prescribing
Step 1: choose an online doctor and complete a short medical questionnaire. You can use our online doctor partner, Zava, to easily order your prescription.
Step 2: an IMC-registered doctor reviews your answers. If suitable, they send a digital prescription via Healthmail to your chosen pharmacy. If you choose Healthwave, the prescription can be addressed to healthwave.dundrum@healthmail.ie.
Step 3: your pharmacy prepares your medicine. If you choose Healthwave, we pack discreetly and typically deliver in 1-2 working days.
Prefer to speak directly with a doctor?
Easily book a video consultation with a registered doctor via Eirdoc.
Prefer to see a doctor in person?
Results timelines and what to expect
Many people notice improved control from the first doses of dapoxetine, with further benefit as technique and pacing improve. Side effects, when they occur, are usually mild and short lived. Avoid alcohol when using dapoxetine and do not take it more than once in 24 hours.
Behavioural techniques that actually help
- Start-stop or squeeze: pause or reduce stimulation to build control over time.
- Pelvic floor training: short, regular sets to improve control.
- Communication and pacing: agree signals and focus on comfort for both partners.
These strategies can be used alone or alongside medical treatment, depending on your preference and doctor’s advice.
FAQs
Is premature ejaculation common?
Yes. It affects many men at some point and often improves with simple techniques or short-term treatment.
What causes premature ejaculation?
Usually a mix of psychological and physical factors, such as stress, performance anxiety, over-sensitivity and, less often, inflammation or thyroid issues. A review helps rule out other causes.
How is PE different from erectile dysfunction?
PE is ejaculation sooner than desired; erectile dysfunction is difficulty getting or keeping an erection. They can occur together and can be assessed in the same consultation.
Do behavioural techniques work?
Yes. Start–stop or squeeze methods, pelvic-floor exercises and better pacing/communication often help and can be combined with medical treatment.
Can I get dapoxetine online in Ireland?
Often yes. After an online medical review, a doctor may prescribe if suitable and send the prescription to your chosen Irish pharmacy by Healthmail.
How long before sex should I take dapoxetine?
Typically 1 to 3 hours beforehand. Your doctor will confirm the exact timing and dose for you.
How long does dapoxetine last?
Its effect is short acting and intended for on-demand use around sexual activity.
How often can I take dapoxetine?
No more than once in a 24-hour period. Do not take extra doses if one dose does not have the desired effect; seek a review instead.
What are the common side effects?
Nausea, light-headedness, headache and feeling flushed. These are usually mild and short lived. If you feel faint, lie down and seek advice.
Is dapoxetine safe with alcohol or antidepressants?
Avoid alcohol around dosing as it can increase side effects and reduce control. Some medicines, including certain antidepressants, migraine and mood medicines, may interact—always tell the doctor everything you take.
Can I use dapoxetine with ED tablets?
Sometimes, but it depends on your health and other medicines. Do not combine treatments without medical advice.
Are there non-drug options I can try first?
Yes. Start–stop or squeeze techniques, condoms (including desensitising types), pelvic-floor training and counselling are all reasonable first steps.
When should I seek in-person care?
If symptoms start suddenly, are severe, occur with pain, bleeding, urinary symptoms, or if you have significant mental-health concerns, arrange a face-to-face assessment.
Does PE go away on its own?
It often improves with practice, reduced anxiety and behavioural strategies. Short-term medical treatment can be added if needed.
Is there an age limit for treatment?
Treatment is for adults. Suitability depends on your medical history and medicines, not just age—this is checked during the review.
