Introduction to Pfizer and Viagra

Pfizer, a leading pharmaceutical company, is the manufacturer and owner of the brand name Viagra. Viagra, also known as sildenafil citrate, is a drug used primarily for treating erectile dysfunction (ED) and has gained immense popularity since its introduction in 1998.

FDA approval of Viagra in 1998

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Viagra for the treatment of erectile dysfunction in 1998. Over 30 million prescriptions have been dispensed for Viagra in 120 countries since its approval.

Sildenafil as the active ingredient in Viagra

Sildenafil is the active ingredient in Viagra, and it works effectively for treating erectile dysfunction. This substance is the same under both trade names, Viagra and Revatio, with the latter being used to treat cardiovascular disease.

Patents for sildenafil: Revatio and Viagra

In the United States, Pfizer received two patents for sildenafil.

Who manufactures Viagra?One patent covers its use for treating cardiovascular disease and is marketed under the brand name Revatio, while the other patent covers its use for treating erectile dysfunction, marketed as Viagra.

2013 settlement with Teva Pharmaceuticals

In 2013, Pfizer reached a settlement with Teva Pharmaceuticals, which allowed the latter company to market a generic version of Viagra. This ensured that generic sildenafil citrate would become more widely available, providing the same benefits as Viagra but at a lower cost.

Pfizer's generic version of Viagra (2017)

In December 2017, Pfizer launched its own generic version of Viagra. This move helped the company maintain a presence in the market, offering a lower-cost alternative to the brand-name drug.

Global sales and market share of Viagra

Viagra has been a highly successful drug for Pfizer, with global sales reaching $1.6 billion in 2016. However, the drug's global market share has decreased due to the entry of other erectile dysfunction drugs, such as Cialis and Levitra, as well as the availability of generic versions of sildenafil.

Competitors: Cialis, Levitra, and generic sildenafil versions

While Pfizer still manufactures the "little blue pill," other companies, both globally and in the United States, also produce generic versions of sildenafil citrate. Competitors like Cialis and Levitra have contributed to a decrease in Viagra's global market share, but Viagra remains a popular and effective treatment for erectile dysfunction.

In conclusion, Pfizer is the manufacturer and owner of the brand name Viagra, which has been a successful drug for treating erectile dysfunction. The company has faced competition from other drugs and generic versions of sildenafil, but it continues to be a key player in the market.