Viagra® (sildenafil citrate) is one of the most well-known medications for treating erectile dysfunction (ED). It’s earned a reputation as the go-to pill for improving sexual performance — but does that extend to helping you last longer during sex?

Many people associate Viagra with increased stamina in the bedroom. While it’s not FDA-approved to treat premature ejaculation (PE), some studies suggest it may offer benefits for men who struggle with finishing too soon.

If you’re curious whether Viagra can help you last longer, this guide breaks down what the science says, how it works in the body, and what your other treatment options are if you want to delay ejaculation.

What Viagra Is — and What It Isn’t

Viagra is a type of medication called a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor. Its primary purpose? Increasing blood flow to the penis to help men with ED achieve and maintain erections. It works by relaxing the blood vessels and erectile tissue, which allows for better blood circulation during sexual arousal.

But here’s what Viagra doesn’t do:

• It doesn’t directly delay ejaculation
  
• It doesn’t boost libido
  
• It doesn’t treat performance anxiety
  
• It won’t make your penis bigger
  

So why do some men feel like it helps them last longer? Let’s look at what the research shows.

What the Science Says About Viagra and Premature Ejaculation

Although Viagra is not approved to treat premature ejaculation, some clinical research suggests it may help in certain cases — especially when ED and PE occur together.

Clinical Studies on Viagra and Ejaculation Time

• A 2007 study published in the International Journal of Urology found that men who took sildenafil experienced an increase in ejaculation time.
  
• A 2005 study in the Journal of Sexual Medicine reported that sildenafil slightly delayed ejaculation in men with PE and improved perceived control and sexual satisfaction — even though the time increase wasn’t statistically significant.
  
• Another clinical trial published in the International Journal of Impotence Research showed that sildenafil helped reduce refractory period time (the time between orgasms) by about nine minutes.
  
• A study involving 160 men found that a combination of sildenafil (50 mg) and tramadol (100 mg) was a safe and effective treatment for PE — though combining these drugs should only be done under medical supervision.
  
  

Why Might Viagra Help?

Researchers believe sildenafil might help delay ejaculation by:

• Decreasing sensitivity in the penis through nervous system modulation
  
• Relaxing smooth muscles involved in the ejaculation reflex
  
• Improving erection firmness, which may contribute to more control and confidence

Why Viagra Isn’t FDA-Approved for PE

To be FDA-approved for any condition, a drug needs to go through large-scale, controlled clinical trials. Viagra was designed and approved for erectile dysfunction — and because it’s already on the market, drug manufacturers haven’t invested in getting it approved for PE.

Still, healthcare providers can legally prescribe it off-label for premature ejaculation if they believe it may help.

Are There Risks to Using Viagra for PE?

Like all medications, Viagra comes with potential side effects, especially if not used as directed:

• Headaches
  
• Flushing
  
• Blurred vision
  
• Low blood pressure (especially if taken with nitrates or alpha-blockers)
  

That’s why it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider before taking Viagra — especially if you have cardiovascular conditions or take medication for blood pressure.

Other Proven Options for Lasting Longer in Bed

If PE is your main concern, Viagra isn’t your only option. In fact, there are several FDA-approved and clinically supported treatments specifically designed to help delay ejaculation.

1. Delay Sprays, Wipes, and Creams

Topical anesthetics like lidocaine or benzocaine can help reduce penile sensitivity and increase ejaculation latency time.

One study found that men with PE increased their time to orgasm from under 90 seconds to over 11 minutes using a lidocaine-prilocaine spray.

These products are available over the counter and are easy to apply before sex.

2. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

Certain SSRIs — such as sertraline (Zoloft®), paroxetine (Paxil®), and fluoxetine (Prozac®) — are often prescribed off-label for premature ejaculation. These medications are known to delay orgasm as a side effect, which can be a benefit in this case.

Studies show they can significantly increase ejaculation time and improve satisfaction for both partners.

3. Behavioral Techniques and Lifestyle Changes

You don’t necessarily need medication to improve stamina. These techniques are simple but clinically supported:

• The stop-start method: Pause stimulation just before climax, then resume once the urge fades.
  
• The squeeze technique: Gently squeeze the base of the penis when you feel close to climax.
  
• Kegel exercises: Strengthen your pelvic floor muscles for better control.
  
• Masturbating before sex