Pfizer will offer Viagra online in attempt to counter illicit pills

Maker of erectile dysfunction treatment say counterfeit pills available online can contain printer ink and pesticidesThe maker of Viagra, the world's leading treatment for erectile dysfunction, has announced that it will start selling its product direct online, in an effort to counter the apparently unstoppable trade in counterfeit pills.Pfizer said that patients in the US with a valid prescription would be able to purchase the pills for $25 each from its website, Viagra.com. The real thing will cost significantly more than fake versions, but Pfizer said patients would be guaranteed quality. Some counterfeit versions had been found to contain printer ink and pesticides, the company said. Pfizer will offer three free tablets with a first order and 30% off the price of a second.Other drugs companies will watch the development with interest. Traditionally, drugs makers have not sold directly to patients, selling instead to wholesalers which distribute the drugs to doctors, hospitals and pharmacies. If Pfizer's idea takes off, other companies could follow suit with everything from popular diet pills to sleeping aids. Viagra, which was launched in 1998, became a global sensation, backed in the US by a wave of advertising featuring middle-aged men, including the soccer star Pele and senator Bob Dole, talking about "ED", or erectile dysfunction. In 2000, Viagra accounted for 90% of all ED pill sales but it has been hurt by the arrival of rivals including Cialis and Levitra and an ex...
Source: Guardian Unlimited Science - Category: Science Authors: Tags: United States World news Pharmaceuticals industry Health guardian.co.uk Drugs Sexual health Men's health Business Source Type: news