Medications can be an effective treatment for premature ejaculation, especially when combined with other treatments. There are two types: topical numbing agents and oral medications.

Topical numbing agents can come in the form of creams, gels, or sprays. You apply them to your penis about 10 to 15 minutes before having sex to reduce sensation. These creams are available without a prescription and are easy to use but can cause decreased sexual pleasure for both partners.

There are no oral medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for premature ejaculation, but certain medications used off-label may help. These include:

  • Antidepressants
  • Tramadol, a type of pain reliver
  • Medications for erectile dysfunction, such as Viagra, Cialis, and Stendra