Men who struggle with premature ejaculation (PE) know how frustrating it can be. It’s not just about timing - it’s about confidence, connection, and control. Duralast, which contains dapoxetine, is one of the few medications approved specifically for PE in many countries. But it’s not the only option. If you’re considering Duralast, you should know what else is out there - and what might work better for your body, lifestyle, and budget.
What is Duralast (Dapoxetine)?
Duralast is a brand name for dapoxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) approved in over 50 countries for treating premature ejaculation. Unlike other SSRIs used for depression, dapoxetine is designed to be taken just 1 to 3 hours before sexual activity. It doesn’t need daily use. That makes it different from drugs like sertraline or paroxetine, which are often prescribed off-label for PE and require consistent daily dosing.
Dapoxetine works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which helps delay ejaculation. Clinical trials show it can extend intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT) by 2 to 3 times compared to placebo. For example, one study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found men using 30 mg of dapoxetine increased their average IELT from 22 seconds to 63 seconds. At 60 mg, that number jumped to 88 seconds.
But results vary. Some men see big improvements. Others feel little change. Side effects like dizziness, nausea, and headaches are common - especially at higher doses. And because it’s taken on-demand, it requires planning. You can’t just rely on spontaneity.
Top Alternatives to Duralast
If Duralast doesn’t fit your needs, there are several other options - some prescription, some over-the-counter, and some non-medical. Here are the most effective and commonly used alternatives.
1. SSRIs Taken Daily (Sertraline, Paroxetine, Fluoxetine)
These are antidepressants that happen to delay ejaculation. They’re often prescribed off-label for PE. Unlike dapoxetine, they build up in your system over days or weeks. You take them daily, not just before sex.
Sertraline (Zoloft) is the most popular choice. It’s affordable, widely available, and studies show it can increase IELT by 4 to 6 times. But the delay in onset means you won’t see results for at least 2 weeks. And because it’s taken daily, side effects like reduced libido, fatigue, or weight gain can become persistent issues.
Paroxetine is even stronger at delaying ejaculation - but it’s also more likely to cause sexual side effects. Fluoxetine has a long half-life, meaning it stays in your body for weeks. That can be helpful if you forget a dose, but dangerous if you want to stop quickly.
2. Topical Anesthetics (Lidocaine, Prilocaine Sprays or Creams)
These are numbing agents applied directly to the penis 10-20 minutes before sex. They reduce sensitivity, helping you last longer. Popular brands include Promescent, Stud 100, and delay sprays sold at pharmacies.
They work fast - often within minutes. No waiting for blood levels to build up. And they don’t affect your mood or energy. But there are downsides. Your partner might feel numb too, unless you wipe or wash off the product. Some men report reduced pleasure. And if you use too much, you can lose erection quality.
A 2023 review in Sexual Medicine Reviews found topical anesthetics improved IELT by 1.5 to 4 times. They’re especially useful for men who want zero systemic side effects or who can’t take oral meds due to other health conditions.
3. Phosphodiesterase-5 Inhibitors (Sildenafil, Tadalafil)
You know these as Viagra and Cialis. They’re for erectile dysfunction, not PE. But many men with PE also have mild ED or performance anxiety. In those cases, taking sildenafil (50 mg) 1 hour before sex can help.
How? By improving confidence and erection firmness, it reduces the mental pressure that leads to rushing. One study showed men using sildenafil along with behavioral techniques improved PE symptoms by 68%, compared to 42% with behavioral techniques alone.
It’s not a direct treatment for PE - but for men who struggle with both erection control and timing, it’s a powerful combo.
4. Behavioral Techniques (Start-Stop, Squeeze, Kegels)
Medication isn’t the only path. Many men see lasting results with training. The start-stop technique involves pausing stimulation when you feel close to climax, then restarting after the urge fades. The squeeze method involves gently squeezing the head of the penis to reduce arousal.
Kegel exercises strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which play a key role in ejaculation control. A 2022 study in the Journal of Urology found that men who did daily Kegels for 12 weeks improved IELT by over 150% - without any pills.
These methods take time. You need consistency. But once learned, they work every time - no side effects, no cost, no prescriptions.
Comparison Table: Duralast vs. Alternatives
| Treatment | How It Works | Time to Effect | Duration | Common Side Effects | Cost (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duralast (Dapoxetine) | SSRI taken 1-3 hours before sex | 1-3 hours | 4-12 hours | Dizziness, nausea, headache | $3-$8 per pill |
| Sertraline (daily) | SSRI taken daily | 2-4 weeks | 24/7 | Low libido, fatigue, weight gain | $5-$15 |
| Lidocaine Spray | Topical numbing | 10-20 minutes | 1-2 hours | Reduced sensation, numb partner | $10-$25 |
| Sildenafil (Viagra) | Improves erections, reduces anxiety | 30-60 minutes | 4-6 hours | Headache, flushing, nasal congestion | $10-$20 |
| Kegel Exercises | Strengthens pelvic muscles | 4-12 weeks | Lifetime (if maintained) | None | $0 |
Who Should Avoid Duralast?
Duralast isn’t safe for everyone. You should avoid it if you:
- Have heart disease, irregular heartbeat, or a history of fainting
- Take nitrates (like nitroglycerin for chest pain)
- Use other SSRIs or MAO inhibitors
- Have severe liver or kidney problems
- Are under 18 or over 65 (limited safety data)
Also, don’t combine Duralast with alcohol. It increases the risk of dizziness and low blood pressure. Many men don’t realize this - and end up feeling lightheaded or nauseated during sex.
What Works Best? It Depends
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Here’s what generally works best for different men:
- If you want fast, on-demand results → Duralast or lidocaine spray
- If you want long-term improvement without pills → Kegel exercises + behavioral techniques
- If you also struggle with erections → Sildenafil + behavioral training
- If you can’t take oral meds → Topical sprays
- If you’re on a budget → Kegels and free online guides
Many men combine treatments. For example: use a lidocaine spray on nights when they want to be extra confident, and do Kegels daily to build lasting control. Others start with Duralast, then switch to daily sertraline if they need more consistent results.
What About Natural Supplements?
You’ll see ads for herbal blends claiming to cure PE - things like ashwagandha, ginseng, or L-arginine. There’s little high-quality evidence they work. A 2024 meta-analysis in Complementary Therapies in Medicine found no statistically significant improvement in IELT from any supplement tested.
Some men report feeling better mentally after taking zinc or vitamin D - but that’s likely because they were deficient. If you’re healthy, supplements won’t delay ejaculation.
Stick to proven methods. Don’t waste money on pills that promise miracles.
When to See a Doctor
If PE is affecting your relationship, self-esteem, or mental health, talk to a doctor. It’s not a sign of weakness. It’s a medical condition - and treatable.
Ask for a referral to a urologist or sexual health specialist. They can rule out underlying causes like prostate issues, hormonal imbalances, or anxiety disorders. They can also help you choose the safest, most effective option based on your full health history.
Don’t try to self-diagnose or buy pills online without a prescription. Counterfeit Duralast is common. Some contain unknown doses or dangerous contaminants.
Is Duralast better than Viagra for premature ejaculation?
No. Duralast (dapoxetine) is specifically designed to delay ejaculation. Viagra (sildenafil) treats erectile dysfunction. While sildenafil can help men with PE who also have erection issues by reducing performance anxiety, it doesn’t directly affect ejaculation timing like dapoxetine does.
Can I take Duralast every day?
No. Duralast is meant to be taken no more than once every 24 hours, and only when you plan to have sex. Daily use increases the risk of side effects like dizziness, nausea, and serotonin-related issues. If you need daily treatment, ask your doctor about sertraline or paroxetine instead.
How long does Duralast last in the body?
Dapoxetine has a short half-life of about 1.4 to 2.1 hours. Most of it leaves your system within 12 hours. That’s why it’s taken on-demand - it doesn’t build up like daily SSRIs. You won’t feel its effects the next day unless you take it too close to bedtime.
Are topical sprays safe for my partner?
They can be, if used correctly. Apply the spray, wait 10-20 minutes, then wash or wipe the penis before intercourse. This removes most of the numbing agent. Avoid using high doses or applying it directly to the partner’s skin. Some women report reduced sensation, so communication is key.
Can Kegel exercises really fix premature ejaculation?
Yes - and the evidence is strong. A 2022 study showed men who did daily Kegels for 12 weeks improved their ejaculation control by over 150%. Unlike pills, the results last as long as you keep doing the exercises. It’s the only treatment that builds long-term muscle control instead of masking symptoms.
What’s the cheapest way to treat PE?
Kegel exercises cost nothing. Free apps and YouTube guides can teach you the right technique. Behavioral methods like start-stop are also free. If you need medication, generic sertraline (Zoloft) is often cheaper than Duralast - especially with insurance. Avoid expensive supplements with no proven benefit.
Final Thoughts
Duralast is a valid option for premature ejaculation - but it’s not the only one, and not always the best. Your choice should depend on your health, lifestyle, and what you’re willing to commit to. Some men prefer the convenience of a pill. Others find freedom in exercises that give them control for life.
There’s no shame in needing help. What matters is finding the solution that works for you - without side effects, without cost traps, and without giving up on intimacy.
Write a comment