An online search for the term "Viagra" will give tons of information regarding the drug's ability to treat male patients who suffer from erectile dysfunction (more commonly known as impotence). Pfizer's Viagra is really just the brand name version of the drug Sildenafil citrate, which is also sold under the name Revatio, Caverta, Veega and others. Several generic Viagra versions are produced worldwide by respectable laboratories that are recognized as being safe by the WHO (World Health Organization). These include Generic Viagra versions produced by Ranbaxy Laboratories, amongst others.
It is also important to note that Pfizer's worldwide patents on Sildenafil citrate will expire from 2011 to 2013 (depending on the country which issued the patent), so many more laboratories worldwide will begin manufacturing the drug at much cheaper prices very soon. Brand name Viagra currently costs about $10 USD a pill, whereas Generic Viagra Versions can be purchased for much less.
Though Viagra is the only version of Sildenafil citrate to currently enjoy FDA approval, it is important to remember that FDA approvals are only recognized within the United States. British, European, Asian, Australian and other Laboratories have to pass strict regulations and standards as well. These standards and regulations are put in place by FDA equivalent organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the requirements for a drug's approval are usually very strict. While the United States' Food and Drug Administration is truly respected as being a serious agency at worldwide level, they only have the final word on what gets approved or gets banned within the United States alone and remember, politics may influence drug approvals as well. |
