The generic name for Viagra is sildenafil [1].
What is Sildenafil used for?
Sildenafil is a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) [1]. It is also used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) [1].
How does Sildenafil work?
Sildenafil belongs to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors [1]. It works by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation, which helps achieve and maintain an erection [1]. For PAH, it relaxes the blood vessels in the lungs, reducing blood pressure [1].
When does Sildenafil patent protection expire?
The original patent for sildenafil citrate was granted in 1996 [2]. Sildenafil became available as a generic drug in December 2017 after the patent expired [3].
Who manufactures generic Sildenafil?
Multiple pharmaceutical companies manufacture generic versions of sildenafil. These include, but are not limited to, Teva Pharmaceuticals, Sandoz, and Mylan Pharmaceuticals [4].
What is the difference between Viagra and generic Sildenafil?
The active ingredient in both Viagra and generic sildenafil is sildenafil citrate [1]. The primary difference lies in the manufacturer and the inactive ingredients used in the formulation, which can affect appearance and possibly how the tablet dissolves [1]. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires generic drugs to be bioequivalent to their brand-name counterparts, meaning they are expected to work the same way in the body [1].
Where can I find more information on Sildenafil patents?
DrugPatentWatch.com provides comprehensive information on drug patents, including those related to sildenafil [2].
Sources
1. Sildenafil Citrate [Internet]. National Library of Medicine. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601071.html
2. Sildenafil Citrate Patents [Internet]. DrugPatentWatch.com. Available from: https://drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/sildenafil-citrate/patents
3. FDA approves first generic version of Viagra [Internet]. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Available from: https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-generic-version-viagra
4. Sildenafil Citrate - Generic Medications [Internet]. Drugs.com. Available from: https://www.drugs.com/drugmaster/sildenafil-citrate.html