Pfizer's Viagra

Pfizer's product Viagra is a globally recognized erectile dysfunction treatment. This blockbuster drug was introduced to the market in 1998, and has been a vital contributor to Pfizer's revenue over the years.

Viagra's FDA Approval and Initial Success

Viagra was granted FDA approval on March 27, 1998, marking a significant milestone in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Its introduction to the market was met with runaway success. In its first quarter, Viagra brought in a total of $400 million in revenue for Pfizer, demonstrating its immediate impact on the company's earnings.

Yearly Revenue of Viagra from Its Launch to Present

Over the past two decades, Viagra has consistently generated significant annual revenue for Pfizer.In 2016 alone, Viagra brought in about $1.6 billion in global sales.It was estimated that Viagra would later produce annual sales of about $1.8 billion.

In fact, for 17 years, Viagra generated over $1 billion in sales every year, reaching a peak of $2.1 billion in 2012.

By 2019, Viagra's revenue was around $500 million globally.

Pfizer's Share in the Erectile Dysfunction Market

Viagra's success boosted Pfizer's stock price to a record $113.75 in trading on the New York Stock Exchange, reflecting the drug's significant influence on Pfizer's market position. Despite some fluctuations, the impact of Viagra on Pfizer's standing in the erectile dysfunction market is undeniable.

Pfizer's Generic Version of Viagra

In response to the evolving market and to maintain its significant share, Pfizer, through its U.S. subsidiary, Greenstone, reached an exclusive supply deal with telehealth provider Roman for access to Pfizer's FDA-approved generic of Viagra (sildenafil citrate). This allowed Pfizer to continue benefiting from Viagra's popularity even as the original patent protection came to an end.

Percentage of ED Prescriptions for Viagra or Its Generic Version

The demand for Viagra and its generic version has remained high, even with the entry of other brands into the market. This is evident in the high percentage of erectile dysfunction prescriptions being written for these treatments.

Expiration of Pfizer's Patents on Viagra in 2020

For almost 20 years, Pfizer Inc. had exclusive rights to the brand-name erectile dysfunction (ED) drug Viagra. However, Pfizer's patents on Viagra expired in 2020, which opened the door for other companies to produce generic versions of the drug.

Emergence of Other Generic Versions of Viagra

With the expiration of Pfizer's patents, a host of generic versions have emerged, giving consumers more options for erectile dysfunction treatment. Despite this increase in competition, Pfizer's generic version of Viagra continues to maintain a strong presence in the market.

New Forms of Viagra

Innovation has led to new forms of Viagra being introduced, such as mint strips and other user-friendly formats. This diversification in product form has helped Pfizer to continue capitalizing on the Viagra brand.

The Impact of Patent Expiration and Competition on Pfizer's Revenue from Viagra

While Pfizer's patents on Viagra have expired, leading to increased competition, the company has been able to maintain significant earnings from Viagra and its generic version. The strategic move to produce their own generic version and the continuous innovation in product form has allowed Pfizer to remain a major player in the erectile dysfunction treatment market. This strategy, coupled with the enduring popularity of Viagra, suggests that Pfizer will continue to generate substantial revenue from this product for the foreseeable future.