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Year
2007 |
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Archives
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Pfizer Considers Selling Version of Over-the-Counter
Viagra
January 11, 2007
Pfizer Inc., the world' biggest drugmaker, is exploring the idea
of selling the Viagra erectile
dysfunction drug without a prescription, the company said.
An over-the-counter version of Viagra must be
approved by U.S. regulators, who would have to determine that patients
could self-diagnose the condition and that the product was safe
for use without a doctor's supervision. Pfizer
declined in an e- mailed statement to give details of its plans
or a timeline.
The drug has been used by more than 23 million men since it was
approved in 1998, the company has said. Viagra, along with other
erectile dysfunction drugs, has been linked with vision loss in
some men. The product labeling also carries a warning it shouldn't
be taken with nitrates used to treat chest pain.
``Since its introduction in 1998, there has been ongoing speculation
about Viagra's alternate uses and delivery mechanism,'' wrote Pfizer
spokeswoman Shreya Prudlo. ``As with many of our products, Pfizer
has routinely evaluated a number of options (including different
formulations, new indications, OTC, etc.) and continues to do so.''
The statement was made in response to a report by a British magazine
that Pfizer is developing an oral spray version of Viagra, citing
unnamed sources. Pfizer denied that report.
To read more : http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601103&sid=ako99MYxgNqQ&refer=news |
