More ‘discreet’ Viagra-type drugs could soon be available in Britain

It’s a little blue pill that has transformed men’s health and the sex lives of millions of people.

But while Viagra’s success has made it the drug for erectile dysfunction famous, a less flashy form could soon become available.

The American company Viatris has created a new version of Viagra: a wafer-like layer that dissolves in the mouth and does not need to be taken with water. Additionally, Viatris recently applied for a trademark for the innovation in Britain.

The product, Viagra ODF, could be a boon for those who have difficulty taking tablets, with the company adding that it offers a more discreet and convenient way to take the medication.

Allan Pacey, professor of andrology at the University of Manchester, welcomed the development.

“I think the little blue pill has become an essential part of modern culture for men and couples of a certain age,” he said. “I don’t think a movie will make much difference to the acceptability of Viagra, but it could make it easier for people to use and take them. Box of pills in your pocket or a discreet video in your wallet? I know which one I would choose.”

Erectile dysfunction is common in men, with approx half of people between the ages of 40 and 70 think they are affected. Viagra helps treat the condition and its effects last for about four hours.

Experts said the trademark application indicated Viatris would like to make it available in Britain within the next five years.

Viagra ODF was launched in Canada in September this year, supplied in an aluminum pouch containing 50 mg doses at a similar cost to traditional Viagra.

Viagra is an example of an accidental discovery: In the early 1990s, its active ingredient, sildenafil, was investigated by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer as a possible treatment for angina.

But during studies at a clinic in Merthyr Tydfil, South Wales, an unexpected side effect occurred: participants reported experiencing erections.

The drug, it turned out, not only relaxed the blood vessels in the chest, but did the same in the penis, improving blood flow. As a result, Pfizer launched the erectile dysfunction drug called Viagra in 1998.