Compare Poxet (Dapoxetine) with Alternatives for Premature Ejaculation

If you’re dealing with premature ejaculation (PE), you’ve probably heard of Poxet-the brand name for dapoxetine. It’s one of the few pills approved specifically for PE, and it works fast. But it’s not the only option. Many men wonder: is Poxet really the best choice? Are there safer, cheaper, or more effective alternatives? The answer isn’t simple. It depends on your body, your lifestyle, and what you’re willing to try.

What is Poxet (Dapoxetine)?

Poxet contains dapoxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) designed to delay ejaculation. Unlike other SSRIs used for depression-like sertraline or fluoxetine-dapoxetine is fast-acting. You take it 1 to 3 hours before sex, not daily. That’s why it’s popular: it gives control without needing to be on medication all the time.

Clinical trials show dapoxetine can increase intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT) by 2 to 3 times. For someone who lasts 30 seconds, that might mean 60 to 90 seconds. That’s not a miracle, but for many, it’s enough to restore confidence and intimacy.

Side effects? They’re real. About 1 in 5 users report nausea, dizziness, or headaches. Less common but serious: low blood pressure, fainting, or serotonin syndrome if mixed with other antidepressants. It’s not for everyone-especially if you have heart issues, take nitrates, or drink alcohol regularly.

Alternative 1: SSRIs Taken Daily (Sertraline, Paroxetine, Fluoxetine)

While Poxet is taken on-demand, other SSRIs like sertraline (Zoloft), paroxetine (Paxil), and fluoxetine (Prozac) are taken daily. These are older antidepressants repurposed for PE. They work by keeping serotonin levels high, which slows ejaculation.

Here’s the trade-off: daily use means steady results, but also steady side effects. Sexual dysfunction, weight gain, fatigue, and emotional blunting are common. You might need 2 to 4 weeks before you see any benefit. And stopping them suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms.

But here’s the upside: they’re cheaper. Generic sertraline costs under $5 a month in many countries. If you’re okay with taking a pill every day and don’t mind waiting for results, this is a solid, well-researched option.

Alternative 2: Topical Anesthetics (Lidocaine, Prilocaine Sprays or Creams)

If you’d rather avoid pills altogether, topical numbing agents are a popular non-systemic choice. Products like Promescent, Stud 100, or generic lidocaine creams reduce penile sensitivity. You apply them 10 to 20 minutes before sex, then wipe off the excess.

They work fast and have minimal systemic side effects. No dizziness, no nausea. But there’s a catch: your partner might feel numb too. Some couples report reduced pleasure or even vaginal irritation. Also, overuse can lead to erection problems from too much numbness.

Best for: men who want immediate, drug-free control and don’t mind a little prep work. Not ideal if you’re spontaneous or your partner dislikes the texture or taste.

Alternative 3: Behavioral Techniques (Start-Stop, Squeeze Method)

No pills. No creams. Just training. Behavioral methods like the start-stop technique and the squeeze method have been used since the 1970s. The idea is simple: learn to recognize the point of no return and pause before you reach it.

Start-stop: You stimulate yourself (or with a partner) until you feel close to ejaculating, then stop completely until the urge fades. Repeat 3 to 5 times per session. Do this 3 to 4 times a week.

Squeeze method: When you feel close, your partner squeezes the head of the penis for 10 seconds until the urge passes. Then you resume.

Studies show these methods can double or triple IELT in 6 to 12 weeks. Success rates are high-up to 80%-but only if you stick with them. No shortcuts. No magic pills. Just discipline.

Best for: men who want long-term change without medication. Works well with therapy or counseling, especially if anxiety is a factor.

Alternative 4: Tramadol (Off-Label Use)

Tramadol is a painkiller, not an SSRI. But some men use it off-label for PE because it increases serotonin and delays ejaculation. One 2017 study found tramadol improved IELT more than placebo and even outperformed dapoxetine in some cases.

But here’s the big problem: tramadol is addictive. It carries risks of dependence, withdrawal, seizures, and serotonin syndrome. It’s not approved for PE anywhere. Doctors in New Zealand, the U.S., and the EU rarely prescribe it for this reason.

Only consider this if you’ve tried everything else and are under strict medical supervision. Not a first-line option. Not even a second-line one.

Alternative 5: Herbal Supplements and Natural Remedies

There’s a booming market for herbal PE supplements: ashwagandha, ginseng, maca, horny goat weed, and blends labeled “male stamina boosters.” Many claim to “increase endurance” or “control ejaculation.”

Here’s the truth: almost none have strong clinical proof. A 2023 review of 12 studies found no consistent benefit from herbal products for PE. Some contain hidden pharmaceuticals-like sildenafil or dapoxetine-without listing them. That’s dangerous. You don’t know the dose. You don’t know the source.

Stick to reputable brands with third-party testing if you try them. But don’t expect miracles. And never mix them with Poxet or SSRIs-risk of serotonin overload is real.

Which Option Is Right for You?

There’s no universal best. Your choice depends on your priorities.

• If you want fast, on-demand control and can handle mild side effects → Poxet (dapoxetine)
• If you want low cost and steady results and don’t mind daily pills → Sertraline or paroxetine
• If you want zero systemic side effects and don’t mind prep → Lidocaine spray
• If you want long-term, drug-free improvement → Start-stop or squeeze method
• If you’re avoiding pills entirely and want to reduce anxiety → Behavioral therapy + mindfulness

Most men try one or two options before finding what sticks. Some combine them: use dapoxetine for special occasions, and behavioral techniques daily. Others switch after side effects become too much.

What Doctors Usually Recommend

In New Zealand, Australia, and the UK, guidelines from sexual health societies suggest a stepwise approach:

1. Start with behavioral techniques and counseling
2. If that doesn’t help, try on-demand dapoxetine (Poxet)
3. If dapoxetine causes side effects, switch to daily SSRIs
4. Topical anesthetics as a backup
5. Avoid tramadol and unregulated supplements

The key? Don’t rush. PE isn’t a medical emergency. It’s a manageable condition. Many men improve without any pills at all.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Buying Poxet online without a prescription. Counterfeit versions are common. Some contain no active ingredient. Others have dangerous additives.
• Combining Poxet with alcohol or recreational drugs. This increases dizziness and fainting risk.
• Expecting instant results from behavioral methods. It takes weeks. Patience is part of the treatment.
• Ignoring partner communication. PE affects relationships. Talking openly reduces shame and builds teamwork.
• Believing “more pills = better results.” Taking extra doses won’t make you last longer-it just raises side effect risk.

When to See a Doctor

See a healthcare provider if:

• You’ve tried self-help methods for 3 months with no improvement
• You have other symptoms like low libido, erectile issues, or depression
• You’re considering prescription meds like SSRIs or tramadol
• You bought supplements online and feel unwell

A doctor can check for underlying causes: thyroid problems, prostate issues, or anxiety disorders. PE is often tied to mental health. Treating the root cause-whether it’s stress, trauma, or relationship tension-can be more effective than any pill.

Next Steps

Start by tracking your symptoms. How often does PE happen? Does it affect your confidence or relationship? Then pick one alternative to test-maybe behavioral techniques or a topical spray. Give it 4 to 6 weeks. If nothing changes, talk to a doctor. Don’t keep guessing. PE is treatable. You don’t have to live with it.