Kiwi company launches generic erectile dysfunction treatment

June 19, 2011
MEDIA RELEASE

Kiwi company launches generic erectile dysfunction treatment

New Zealand’s Douglas Pharmaceuticals will launch Silvasta – a generic of Viagra™, a treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED), on Monday (June 20).

“This breakthrough for New Zealand couples has happened because Pfizer New Zealand’s Viagra™ (sildenafil) lost patent protection on June 19, giving us the opportunity to provide a lower cost alternative,” explains Douglas Pharmaceuticals medical marketing manager, Mike Siermans.

Siermans and the Douglas team launched Viagra™ in the late 1990s when Pfizer products were marketed through Douglas Pharmaceuticals.

“This is a significant step for the treatment of erectile dysfunction in New Zealand and the world. The introduction of Silvasta will make the treatment of ED more affordable for most couples as we expect a significant reduction in the price.”

Dr Warrick White, a GP with a special interest and experience in the treatment of ED, believes that the price reduction could see a significant increase in demand for a cost-effective treatment. Up to 52 percent of men in NZ over the age of 40 (946,000 men) may suffer from mild, moderate or severe ED.

“As a doctor, I’m excited about the prospect of more men visiting their doctors to seek treatment for ED because we can offer a full medical check-up at the same time. This opportunity could mean an increase in the diagnosis and treatment of serious health issues as men do not often otherwise visit the doctor,” says Dr White.

“Men and their partners should seek advice from their doctor if they are concerned about ED in any way. We will supply doctors with free samples of Silvasta so couples can experience its benefits and rejuvenate their love life,” says Mr Siermans.

Silvasta is available in 100mg tablets on prescription.

Viagra is a registered trademark of Pfizer Products Inc.

Ends

About ED

Erectile dysfunction is related to a number of common health issues such as diabetes, depression and heart disease – conditions which often appear in men over 40 years of age.

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