It was first approved for use in the United States in the year 1997. Today, it’s one of the most popular drugs in the world. Here’s a look at how long Viagra (sildenafil citrate) has been around and some of the key events that made it so popular.
The Early Trials
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved sildenafil in the form of Viagra for sale in pharmacies in January 1997. It was the first drug to be approved for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (formerly known as impotence) in over 20 years. It was originally developed to treat high blood pressure but was found to increase penis blood circulation and improve the quality of erections in some patients with erectile dysfunction. The drug’s active ingredient, sildenafil, is a phosphodiesterase inhibitor. It works by increasing the amount of blood flowing into the penis during arousal, which in turn, increases the likelihood of achieving an erection. Sildenafil is currently available in tablet, pill, and liquid forms and in varying doses ranging from 25 mg to 100 mg. It can also be purchased over the counter without a prescription.
A Big Hit In The Market
Even before Viagra was approved for use in the U.S., pharmaceutical companies were sponsoring studies to find out more about the drug’s effectiveness and safety. Two of the drug’s largest competitors, Ciplox (sildenafil citrate) and Super-Viagra (sildenafil citrate), had sponsored the studies that led to the FDA approval of sildenafil. The drug’s effectiveness in increasing penis blood flow was proven in studies sponsored by the firms, as well as other clinical trials. Further bolstering its popularity is the fact that Viagra is one of the few drugs that treat both erectile dysfunction and another sexual health issue, infertility. It is also one of the safest – and most popular – ED drugs currently on the market.
Global Appeal
The demand for Viagra in clinical settings is huge, especially in developed markets like North America and Western Europe. However, even in markets where the drug hasn’t been available, like Japan and parts of Asia, there has been a huge increase in the number of men seeking help for ED. This is likely due to an increase in online research and the prevalence of mobile phones, which makes it much easier to access information about sex and relationships.
The Importance Of The PDE5 Gene
The popularity of Viagra is largely because of the pivotal role the phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) gene plays in regulating male erectile function. The gene codes for the protein phosphodiesterase 5A, which is found in the membranes of smooth muscle cells within the penis. The protein helps to break down a form of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) in the penis in order to allow for improved blood flow during arousal. This in turn, increases the likelihood of achieving an erection. Some men with ED have been found to have a defective PDE5 gene and are therefore, less likely to experience the benefits of Viagra. Unfortunately, this also makes them more vulnerable to side effects from the drug. For these men, alternative ED treatments, such as vacuum devices and injectables, are usually necessary. However, even in men with normal PDE5 genes, occasional side effects, such as a headache, flushing, and indigestion, have been reported.
The Rise Of Viagra-branded Products
Even before the approval of the drug for use in the U.S., Viagra was used in Europe as a treatment for ED and it was rapidly approved for sale across the continent. This gave birth to one of the industry’s most popular and successful lines of products – Viagra-branded products. Today, there are over 30 different types of Viagra-branded products available to consumers in Europe, with the largest market share held by Cialis and Levitra. These products are manufactured by various pharmaceutical companies, like Pfizer and Bayer, and are available to buy over the counter without a prescription. They are also sometimes included in hospital and medical clinic drug formularies.
Selling The Dream
Before the approval of Viagra for sale in the U.S., impotence was seen as a shameful thing by some men. The stigma attached to the condition made it difficult for some men to seek help for, especially in areas where help was not easily accessible. However, as the condition became more widely known and accepted, it inspired the creation of a new industry. Some entrepreneurs spotted a growing demand for help and established sex therapy centers in various locations around North America. These centers usually worked with men who sought help for performance anxiety or who had difficulty maintaining an erection. The practitioners at these centers often prescribed Viagra as part of their treatment. In many cases, the men would start with a low dose, and then gradually increase their intake as needed. This strategy helped to minimize the risk of side effects while also encouraging patients to maximize the benefits of the drug. Selling the dream, indeed.
Even before it was approved for use in the U.S., Viagra was used as a treatment for erectile dysfunction in Europe. It was rapidly approved for sale across the continent and gave rise to one of the industry’s most popular and successful lines of products – Viagra-branded products. These products are manufactured by various pharmaceutical companies, like Pfizer and Bayer, and are available to buy over the counter without a prescription. They are also sometimes included in hospital and medical clinic drug formularies. The drug is also sometimes given to newborns with low blood pressure to help them achieve stronger erections as they grow up.