See the DrugPatentWatch profile for viagra
Pfizer's patent for Viagra (sildenafil citrate) expired in the United States in April 2020 [1]. This expiration opened the door for generic versions of the drug to enter the market [1].
When did generic Viagra become available?
Following the patent expiration, generic sildenafil became available in the U.S. in late 2019 and early 2020 [1]. This coincided with the patent's expiry in April 2020 [1].
What is the difference between brand-name Viagra and generic sildenafil?
Generic sildenafil contains the same active ingredient, sildenafil citrate, as brand-name Viagra [1]. Regulatory bodies, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), require generic drugs to be bioequivalent to their brand-name counterparts, meaning they must deliver the same amount of active ingredient into the bloodstream over the same period [1]. The primary difference typically lies in inactive ingredients and cost, with generics generally being more affordable [1].
How does Viagra work?
Viagra is a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). It works by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation [2]. The active ingredient, sildenafil citrate, is a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor [2]. By inhibiting PDE5, sildenafil helps relax the smooth muscles in the blood vessels of the penis, allowing for an erection [2].
Are there other medications for erectile dysfunction?
Yes, other medications are available for erectile dysfunction. These include other PDE5 inhibitors like tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra), and avanafil (Stendra), each with its own approved uses and side effect profiles [3].
What are the risks associated with Viagra?
Common side effects of Viagra include headache, flushing, indigestion, and changes in vision like blurred vision or sensitivity to light [2]. More serious, though rare, side effects can include prolonged erections (priapism), sudden vision loss, or sudden hearing decrease [2]. It is important to consult a healthcare professional for a complete list of risks and to determine if Viagra is appropriate for an individual [2].
What is the cost of generic Viagra?
The cost of generic sildenafil can vary significantly depending on the pharmacy, dosage, and insurance coverage. However, generic medications are generally priced lower than their brand-name equivalents [1].
Who manufactures generic sildenafil?
Multiple pharmaceutical companies manufacture generic versions of sildenafil. Companies like Teva Pharmaceuticals, Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, and others are among those that have received FDA approval to market generic sildenafil [1].
Sources:
1. DrugPatentWatch.com
2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (n.d.). Viagra. Retrieved from FDA Website
3. National Institutes of Health. (n.d.). Sildenafil Citrate. Retrieved from NIH Website