Comparing the Effectiveness of Tramadol versus Paroxetine in the Treatment of Premature Ejaculation

Abstract

Objective: To conduct a comparative analysis of the effectiveness of tramadol versus paroxetine in managing premature ejaculation (PE).

Methodology: This study employs a randomized, double-blind, parallel-group design conducted at the Urology department of Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences Jamshoro, Hyderabad, Pakistan. Participants are adult males aged 18–65 years who report persistent PE were included in the study. Premature ejaculation occurs in men when semen leave the body (ejaculate) sooner or just before penetration. Participants meeting the diagnostic criteria for PE are assigned randomly to either the tramadol group or the paroxetine group. Participants in the tramadol group receive oral tramadol hydrochloride at a dose of 50 mg, taken 1–2 hours before anticipated sexual activity. Participants in the paroxetine group receive oral paroxetine hydrochloride (20mg daily), taken continuously for 8 weeks. The primary outcome measure is the change or delay in intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT).

Results: The mean baseline IELT and after treatment IELT in tramadol group was statistically significant (p<0.001), 47.83±5.68 seconds and 141.54±4.04 seconds, respectively. Similarly, the mean baseline IELT and after treatment IELT in the paroxetine group was statistically significant (p<0.001), 47.03±5.48 seconds and 98.67±4.68 seconds, respectively.

Conclusion: Tramadol is an effective alternative to paroxetine in treating premature ejaculation, with studies showing it significantly delays ejaculation similar to paroxetine, providing patients more options for managing lifelong PE.