Recent reports have leaked out that Pfizer has been planning the release of an over-the-counter spray version of their blockbuster prescription drug Viagra.
According to MSNBC.com, analysts say that, "it is highly unlikely that federal regulators would ever give Pfizer Inc. approval to sell its erectile dysfunction medication Viagra over the counter because of safety risks associated with the drug."
Critics say that it would be illogical for Pfizer to seek approval for an OTC version of Viagra because there is no chance that regulators would approve the drug for sales simply because men who take nitrates for chest pain are at serious health risks when mixed with Viagra.
Jason Napodano an analyst at Zacks Independent Research said, "You can't trust patients to read the label."
Jon LeCroy, an analyst with Natexis Bleichroeder Inc. told MSNBC.com, he didn't think the FDA would take a chance on letting a drug with such risks be sold without a prescription, especially since it is a lifestyle product and not something that treats a disease.
The OTC version of the drug is said to be an attempt for Pfizer to retain its dominance in the lucrative impotence drug market. In July, Pfizer's competitor, GlaxoSmithKline announced that it will be releasing an over-the-counter impotence gel.
It looks like Pfizer may have to look somewhere else to recoup its recent sales slump and keep up with its competition like GlaxoSmithKline and Merck.
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