How To Use Priligy
Complete Step-by-Step Usage Guide, Dosage Instructions & Safety Information
Key Takeaways: Using Priligy Correctly
- Timing: Take 1–3 hours before sexual activity — not daily.
- Dosage: Start at 30 mg; may increase to 60 mg based on response and tolerability.
- Water: Swallow whole with at least one full glass of water to reduce fainting risk.
- Frequency: Maximum once every 24 hours. Do not take more than one dose per day.
- Contraindications: Avoid if you have heart problems, fainting history, or take MAOIs.
- Avoid: Alcohol and grapefruit juice while using Priligy.
Priligy (dapoxetine) is an on‑demand treatment for premature ejaculation. Using it correctly ensures maximum effectiveness and minimises side effects. Follow this guide for safe, proper use.
Important Safety Advice
If you faint, feel light‑headed upon standing, or experience mood changes / thoughts of self‑harm, stop Priligy and seek immediate medical help. Fainting risk increases if you are dehydrated, skip water, or drink alcohol.
How to Take Priligy: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps exactly as recommended by your doctor and the patient information leaflet.
- Check suitability: Ensure you are aged 18–64 and have a diagnosis of premature ejaculation. Review the contraindications (see below).
- Select the dose: The usual starting dose is 30 mg. Your doctor may prescribe 60 mg if 30 mg is insufficient and well tolerated.
- Prepare a full glass of water: This is essential to lower the chance of fainting.
- Swallow the tablet whole: Do not crush or chew — it may cause a bitter taste and faster absorption, increasing side effects.
- Time your dose: Take it 1 to 3 hours before you plan to have sexual activity. Priligy works only during this window.
- Avoid alcohol and grapefruit juice: Both increase the risk of side effects (fainting, dizziness).
- Do not take another dose within 24 hours: Even if the first dose didn’t work, wait until the next day.
🗒️ Patient Tip: Set a reminder 2 hours before anticipated activity. Keep a bottle of water nearby to ensure you take it with a full glass.
Priligy Dosage Guide: 30 mg vs 60 mg
Priligy is available as 30 mg and 60 mg film‑coated tablets. The dose should be individualised based on effectiveness and tolerability.
| Dose Strength | When to Use | Efficacy (IELT increase) | Common Side Effects |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 mg (light grey) | Starting dose for all men | 2.5‑ to 3‑fold increase | Nausea, dizziness, headache (mild) |
| 60 mg (grey) | If 30 mg insufficient and well tolerated | 3‑ to 3.5‑fold increase | Higher chance of nausea, fainting |
Important Dosage Rules
- Maximum one dose in 24 hours.
- Do not take daily — it is not for continuous use.
- Swallow whole; do not split or crush tablets.
🗒️ Prescribing Note: Your doctor may ask you to try Priligy 4–6 times before deciding if the dose is right. Always follow their advice.
Who Should Use Priligy
Based on the Patient Information Leaflet and UK prescribing guidelines, Priligy is suitable for:
- Men aged 18–64 years.
- Men diagnosed with premature ejaculation (lifelong or acquired).
- Men who have good erectile function (if you have ED, it should be treated first).
- Men who can identify the need for treatment 1–3 hours before sexual activity.
Your doctor will assess your general health, including blood pressure and any underlying conditions, before prescribing.
Who Should NOT Use Priligy (Contraindications)
Do NOT take Priligy if:
- Allergy to dapoxetine or any tablet ingredient.
- Heart problems (heart failure, rhythm disorders).
- History of fainting (syncope).
- Mania or severe depression.
- Moderate or severe liver impairment.
- Taking MAOIs, thioridazine, linezolid, St John's wort, tramadol, or migraine meds.
Use with caution (doctor supervision required):
- Mild liver impairment.
- Severe kidney disease (eGFR <30).
- Epilepsy.
- Bleeding disorders.
- Glaucoma.
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure.
- Recreational drug use (ecstasy, LSD, benzodiazepines).
Taking Priligy with Food or Without Food
Priligy can be taken with or without food. However, certain foods and drinks must be avoided.
| Situation | Effect on Priligy | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| With food | No significant change in overall absorption; Tmax may delay ~30 min | Fine — but avoid high‑fat meals close to dosing if rapid onset desired |
| On empty stomach | Faster peak levels (1–2 hours) | Preferred if you want the quickest onset |
| Grapefruit juice | Inhibits CYP3A4, increases dapoxetine levels → higher side effect risk | Avoid completely 24h before and after |
| Alcohol | Additive dizziness, drowsiness, fainting risk | Do not drink alcohol while taking Priligy |
🗒️ Hydration reminder: Always take with at least a full glass of water — even if you take it with food.
Special Conditions: Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & Other Considerations
Priligy is intended for use in men, but here are important notes regarding partners and specific health situations.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Priligy is not for use in women. If your partner is pregnant or breastfeeding, there is no known risk from your use of Priligy, as it is not transmitted through semen in clinically relevant amounts.
- Fertility: No evidence that dapoxetine impairs male fertility. Studies show no adverse effects on sperm parameters.
- Elderly (≥65 years): Not recommended — safety and efficacy not established.
- Renal impairment: Use with caution in severe impairment; contraindicated if on haemodialysis.
- Hepatic impairment: Contraindicated in moderate or severe liver disease.
- Driving: Priligy may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or fainting. Do not drive if affected.
Priligy Usage FAQs
Can I take Priligy every day?
No, Priligy is for on‑demand use only. Take it 1–3 hours before sexual activity, and never more than once in 24 hours.
What happens if I miss the 3‑hour window?
If you take it less than 1 hour before, it may not have time to work. If you take it more than 3 hours before, the peak effect might be wearing off. Wait until your next planned activity and dose again (after 24 hours).
Can I take Priligy with sildenafil (Viagra)?
Yes, but with caution — both lower blood pressure. Your doctor may approve the combination if you have no heart issues. Avoid taking them at exactly the same time.
What should I do if I faint after taking Priligy?
Lie down immediately with your head lower than your body. Do not stand up quickly. Seek medical attention if you don't recover quickly or if it happens repeatedly.
Can I drink alcohol if I take Priligy?
No. Alcohol increases dizziness, drowsiness, and fainting risk. It also may worsen orthostatic hypotension.
Need a Priligy Prescription?
If you’ve read this guide and believe Priligy could be right for you, complete a quick online consultation with a UK‑registered doctor.
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Clinical References & Sources
Medical Content Manager
Nabeel is a co-founder, and medical content manager of Chemist Doctor. He works closely with our medical team to ensure the information is accurate and up-to-date.
Medical Doctor
Dr. Feroz is a GMC-registered doctor and a medical reviewer at Chemist Doctor. He oversees acute condition and urgent care guidance.
Medical Director
Usman is a co-founder, and medical director of Chemist Doctor. He leads the organisation's strategic vision, bridging clinical and operational priorities.
Review Date: 26 February 2026
Next Review: 26 August 2026
Published on: 26 February 2026
Last Updated: 26 February 2026