Media release from Pfizer

The little blue pill called Viagra® (sildenafil citrate) which revolutionised the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) and made a positive impact on men's sexual health has now become more affordable.

With the New Zealand patent period on Viagra expiring in June, the market will soon be open to generic medicines.  Pfizer, the makers of Viagra, will now also sell this medicine in New Zealand under a second brand called Avigra®.

Avigra will provide the thousands of Kiwi men currently using Viagra with a more affordable option, plus the confidence they'll be receiving the same quality of medicine from the makers of Viagra, the most prescribed treatment for ED in New Zealand since its launch in 1998 .

"Because Viagra still remains patented throughout most of the world, by launching a second brand in a generic market it allows us to provide the same quality of medicine as Viagra at a more competitive price," says Frances Benge, Head of Primary Care, Pfizer New Zealand Limited.

Until now the cost of treatment for ED has prevented some men from receiving it.  The recommended retail cost of Avigra is around $8 per tablet (available in boxes of four or 12), almost half the price of Viagra, making it more affordable and allowing more men to access treatment for a healthier sex life.

Viagra will still be available in New Zealand at a competitive price for those men who prefer to remain on it.  

The active ingredient in Avigra has helped more than 37 million men in 120 countries reclaim their sex lives by improving the hardness of their erection.  Along with optimal erection, many men using this treatment report an increase in sexual confidence, self-esteem and sexual relations satisfaction.

Product information:

Prices may vary from pharmacy to pharmacy. Doctor fees and a pharmacy charge may apply. Avigra is a private purchase medicine. Avigra is available in boxes of 4 (sildenafil citrate 25mg, 50mg, 100mg) or 12 (100mg only). It is a prescription medicine for the treatment of erection problems. Avigra must not be used by men taking any form of nitrate medicine. Avigra must not be taken by men with heart conditions that may be affected by the strain of sexual activity. Side effects include headache, dizziness, flushing, indigestion, temporary changes in vision, stuffy nose, diarrhoea, urinary tract infection or rash. Use strictly as directed. If symptoms continue or you have side effects see your doctor. Doctor fees and a pharmacy charge may apply. Avigra is a registered trademark of Pfizer New Zealand Limited. Further information on Avigra is available from www.Medsafe.govt.nz or from Pfizer New Zealand limited. PO Box 3998, Auckland. Phone 09 638 0000 www.pfizer.co.nz TAPS NA4902