Letters: Premature ejaculation

Dear Dr Williams-Green,

I'd like to bring to your notice that I suffer from premature ejaculation and it is beginning to adversely affect my relationship. Please advise me on medical aids I can truly rely on for immediate solution. I am 49, Nigerian, living in Nigeria. I will appreciate immediate response. Thanks.

- Bern

Dear Sir,

Great to hear from Nigeria! With respect to your question on medical aids for premature ejaculation, there are several options. There are creams containing anaesthetics such as lidocaine and prilocaine which are applied 10 minutes before intercourse. This is fairly effective but reduces sensations for both the man and the woman.

You may also consult a physician for an antidepressant such as clomipramine or paroxetine. This is usually taken daily for best results. Unfortunately, the side effects include loss of libido and erectile dysfunction. Recently, a new drug called dapoxetine has been developed to be taken an hour or so before intercourse. This has shown some promise for premature ejaculation.

Sildenafil and other drugs in this group may also be taken an hour before coitus to help with pre-mature ejaculation. I recommend that you visit your family doctor and discuss your problem and the possible options.

Send questions and comments to our health specialists at Your Health, c/o The Gleaner, 7 North Street, Kingston; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com. Unless otherwise indicated, letters and the specialists' responses are usually published.