Press Releases

Pfizer launches VIAGRA™ in India
Mumbai, December 20th, 2005

Pfizer today announced the launch of VIAGRA™ (sildenafil citrate) - their breakthrough treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED), in the Indian market. With one tablet being sold every 6 seconds worldwide, VIAGRA™ is one of the most successful and recognized drugs globally and has treated more than 27 million men with erectile dysfunction..

Pfizer’s research scientists discovered and developed the revolutionary drug VIAGRA™ that enables men with ED to respond to sexual stimulation. VIAGRA™ works by augmenting the effects of nitric oxide, a key substance involved in erection. Thus VIAGRA™ increases the blood flow to the penis, which is necessary for establishing and maintaining an erection for successful intercourse. In effect, VIAGRA™ restores a man’s ability to respond naturally to sexual stimulation.

In the words of Dr. Peter Ellis, Executive Director, Pfizer UK, joint patent holder and part of the team that discovered the molecule -“It has been a very exciting journey for Pfizer and for me personally to see how the discovery of this molecule could be used in such a valuable, therapeutic way.”

Erectile Dysfunction often leads to anxiety, depression, loss of self esteem and diminished quality of life. Its effect on spouses and families can be devastating. ED affects an estimated 100 million men worldwide.

The Massachusetts Male Aging Study found that over 50% of men aged 40 to 70 suffer from varying degrees of ED. Usually, ED is caused by an underlying health problem like vascular disease; diabetes; the effect of certain medications taken to treat those illnesses; smoking and alcohol use. In a small percentage of men, psychogenic factors may contribute to ED.

Viagra has been approved in over 123 countries. With more than 7 lakh doctors worldwide prescribing it, VIAGRA™ has sold over 1.87 billion pills so far.

Kewal Handa, Managing Director, Pfizer India said “Patients and doctors in India have been seeking the introduction of VIAGRA™. They want the certainty of accessing the genuine VIAGRA™ and the peace of mind that comes with buying the original product.”

VIAGRA™ is imported from France, and the packs have a special hologram to ensure its authenticity.

VIAGRA™ will be available in 50 mg and 100 mg pills at chemist outlets in 30 major cities across India. Pfizer will promote the drug to urologists, endocrinologists, venereologists and psychiatrists.

About Pfizer: Globally, Pfizer discovers, develops, manufactures, and markets leading prescription medicines for humans and animals and many of the world's best-known consumer brands. Our innovative, value-added products improve the quality of life of people around the world and help them enjoy longer, healthier, and more productive lives. The company has three business segments: health care, animal health and consumer health care. Our products are available in more than 150 countries.

Pfizer Limited has been present in India since 1950.