Selective Serotonin Re-Uptake Inhibitors for Premature Ejaculation in Adult Men: A Cochrane Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Pharmacology
• Men's Health

Background:

• Premature ejaculation (PE) is a common male sexual dysfunction.
• Selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are frequently prescribed for PE.
• Evidence on SSRI efficacy for PE requires systematic evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of SSRI treatment for premature ejaculation (PE) in men.
• To synthesize findings from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on SSRIs for PE.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases up to May 2020.
• Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating SSRI treatment for PE were included.
• Data from 31 studies involving 8,254 men were analyzed.

Main Results:

• SSRI treatment likely improves self-perceived PE symptoms (RR 1.92) and satisfaction with intercourse (RR 1.63) compared to placebo.
• Participants reported improved self-perceived control over ejaculation (RR 2.29) and reduced distress (RR 1.54).
• SSRI use may increase intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT) but also raises the risk of treatment cessation due to adverse events (RR 3.80).

Conclusions:

• SSRI treatment for PE demonstrates significant benefits in symptom improvement, intercourse satisfaction, and perceived ejaculatory control.
• The findings highlight the potential effectiveness of SSRIs for managing PE.
• Consideration of adverse events and treatment discontinuation is crucial when using SSRIs for PE.