Objective: To review the use of selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in the treatment of premature ejaculation.

Data sources: Articles were retrieved through a MEDLINE search (1966-January 2004). Search terms used to identify articles included serotonin uptake inhibitors, premature ejaculation, rapid ejaculation, and sexual behavior, as well as the generic names of currently available SSRIs: fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, sertraline, citalopram, and escitalopram. The literature search was limited to articles published in the English language containing human subjects.

Study selection and data extraction: Articles obtained through the literature search were evaluated, and randomized controlled trials were included in this review. Information from noncontrolled trials or case reports was considered for inclusion if it contributed to the completeness of this review and if it was the highest level of evidence available.

Data synthesis: Premature ejaculation is a commonly reported sexual difficulty. Delayed ejaculation is a widely reported sexual adverse effect of SSRIs. In some men exhibiting premature ejaculation, the ability of the SSRIs to delay ejaculation has been therapeutic. Trials evaluating the ejaculation-delaying ability of SSRIs demonstrated that paroxetine, fluoxetine, sertraline, and citalopram produce a statistically significant increase in the ejaculation latency time compared with placebo.

Conclusions: Taking advantage of the ejaculation-delaying effects of SSRIs increases the treatment options available to prescribers and patients. Convenience and minimal adverse effect profile make these agents an alternative to previously used behavior modalities and older pharmacologic agents. Although some questions still surround the details of their use, SSRIs have the potential to improve the quality of life for men with premature ejaculation and their partners.