Viagra and its patent

Viagra, also known as sildenafil, was patented in 1996 and approved by the FDA in 1998 for treating erectile dysfunction (ED). The original patent for Viagra was set to expire in 2020.

Pfizer and the original patent expiration date

Pfizer, the pharmaceutical company that developed Viagra, held a strong patent protection for nearly two decades. Their patent protection was close to running out in 2011, but a later patent was legally confirmed, extending their hold on the market.

Agreement between Pfizer and Teva Pharmaceuticals

Despite the original patent expiration date in 2020, Pfizer entered into an agreement with Teva Pharmaceuticals. This agreement allowed Teva to launch a generic version of Viagra in the United States on December 11, 2017.

Launch of generic Viagra in the United States

As a result of the agreement between Pfizer and Teva Pharmaceuticals, generic Viagra became available in the U.S. starting December 2017. This opened the market for more affordable ED treatment options for patients.

Entry of other generic manufacturers in 2020

Following the expiration of the original Viagra patent in 2020, other generic manufacturers were able to enter the market with their own versions of generic Viagra.

This increased the availability and variety of ED treatment options for patients.

Current market situation and availability of generic Viagra

As of April 5, 2023, generic Viagra is widely available in the U.S., with multiple manufacturers offering their versions of the medication. This has led to more competitive pricing and easier access to ED treatment for patients.

Future implications for the Viagra market

With the patent for Viagra expired and numerous generic options available, the market for ED treatments is more competitive than ever. This is expected to drive further innovation and potentially lead to the development of new medications or therapies for erectile dysfunction.