The results of a laboratory trial have revealed that the drug dapoxetine, prescribed for premature ejaculation is not only reasonably safe but also effective.
The drug lengthened the duration of intercourse by three to four times in an American study of 2,600 men, according to Lancet, the British journal.
University of Minnesota researchers found taking the drug increases the average duration of sex from less than a minute to three minutes 19 seconds.
Treatment for premature ejaculation involves counselling and the use of anti-depressants from dapoxetine's family of drugs -- selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors -- although these are not specifically licensed for the condition.
Indeed, some experts have raised concerns about these drugs being used as they carry a risk of side effects including psychiatric problems, skin reactions and changes in bodyweight.
While dapoxetine is an SSRI, it is not as strong as ones used to treat depression, and has been specifically tailored for premature ejaculation. It can be used on-demand rather than needing to be taken over the long-term.
"Dapoxetine also improved patients' perceptions of control over ejaculation, satisfaction with sexual intercourse, and overall impression of change in condition," Dr Pryor said.
"Partners benefited through improved satisfaction with sexual intercourse," he added.
