Comparison of the Effects of Tamarind Seed Extract (Tamarindus Indica L.) with Sertraline in Treating Premature Ejaculation: A Randomized Double-blind Trial

Abstract

Background: Premature ejaculation (PE) is a prevalent male sexual disorder often untreated due to embarrassment. This study compares the efficacy of tamarind seed extract (Tamarindus indica L.) with sertraline in treating PE. Materials and Methods: In this randomized, double-blind, parallel-group trial, 41 men diagnosed with PE at urology and psychiatric clinics in Shiraz, Iran (2023) were enrolled. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either 80 mg tamarind seed extract capsules (Group A, n=20) or 50 mg sertraline tablets (Group B, n=21) daily for 4 weeks. The primary outcome was the Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool (PEDT) score, with secondary outcomes including International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) scores (erectile function, orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, overall satisfaction) and side effects. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22 with t-tests and ANOVA (P<0.05). Results: Both treatments significantly improved PEDT scores (P=0.001, η_p^2=0.76, 95% CI for mean difference: [-6.95, -4.95]) and IIEF subscales (P<0.01). No significant differences were observed between groups (P=0.69, η_p^2=0.10) or in the time-group interaction (P=0.42, η_p^2=0.15). Side effects were minimal in both groups.Conclusion: The findings indicate a potential relationship between tamarind seed extract and improvements in premature ejaculation and related factors, comparable to sertraline; however, these results should be interpreted with caution and require further validation through additional research.Trial registration number: IRCT20140926019295N4.