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Pfizer Viagra to compete with desi ones
Published on Wed, Dec 14, 2005 at 13:06, Updated at Wed, Dec 14, 2005 in 
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Tough competition for Pfizer Viagra
Pharma giant Pfizer has launched Viagra in the country, seven years after it hit stores worldwide. But will the original Viagra sell?
New Delhi: Drug giant Pfizer is planning to roll out its hugely popular erectile dysfunction drug brand, Viagra, in India this week after a long wait.
The product is expected to be launched in all big cities simultaneously at a "competitive" price.
Currently, there are about 11 generic brands available in the domestic market, which are priced in the range of Rs 180 to Rs 200 per strip of 10 tablets.
Pfizer had launched Viagra in regulated markets abroad but hadn?t introduced the product in India.
BUSTING THE MYTH |
So what does it do, exactly? |
Viagra is not an aphrodisiac. It inhibits an enzyme, called PDE-5. Blocking this increases blood flow to the penis, nose and skin. It has no effect on the brain and doesn't increase the sex drive. It isn't a miracle sex drug. |
Viagra has been called everything from an aphrodisiac to a party drug. "It's a sex drug, I wouldn't use it, I don't need it," a youngster in Delhi said.
The main ingredient in the magic blue pill is Sildenafil Citrate. While India does not have the original Viagra yet, the country has generic versions from Zydus Cadila, Sun Pharma and Alchem, which contain the same ingredient since 2001.
Industry analysts feel the curiosity factor has induced the high turnover of Sildenafil brands despite the presence of over 10 players in the market.
So who is it meant for?
Men suffering from erectile dysfunction. But you need to consult a doctor before taking this drug if you have a heart problem. Doctors have warned that heart patients should not take Viagra, as it can react with their medication.
"People taking nitrates for heart conditions, even erithromycin should not take Sildenafil," Dr Sameer Srivastava in Delhi said.
The side effects to this drug are headaches, abnormal vision, diarrhea, rashes, dyspepsia, and rhinitis.
Viagra is supposed to be sold by prescription in India but that's hardly something that can be enforced here.
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