[27th Mar] Today in History

A Day of Ordinary Magic: a Special Day for Men

The 27th of March, 1998, marked a turning point in men’s health, as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the revolutionary oral medication, Viagra. This was the first-ever approved medication specifically designed to treat erectile dysfunction (ED), a common sexual disorder affecting millions of men around the world.

Known as Sildenafil citrate, Viagra revolutionised the approach to treating ED by increasing blood flow to the penis, which facilitated the achievement and maintenance of erections. Since its approval, Viagra has been prescribed over 65 million times and has been shown to be effective in over 80% of cases. It has given hope to men of all ages, from those in their 20s to those in their 80s. Despite its widespread use, Viagra does come with side effects, including headaches, flushing, and indigestion.

Embracing a New Dawn

Viagra’s impact transcended the boundaries of mere physical relief for those suffering from ED. The economic implications were remarkable, with the drug exceeding $1 billion in sales in just its first year on the market. This success paved the way for the development of other ED medications, such as Cialis and Levitra, further expanding the market. Beyond the economic impact, Viagra played a crucial role in reducing the stigma surrounding ED, encouraging men to seek treatment and openly discuss their condition with healthcare providers. This cultural shift has allowed more men to access the help they need to lead fulfilling sex lives and improve their overall quality of life.

A Global Odyssey of Healing

Viagra’s influence has reached far beyond the shores of the United States, including countries like China, which has become one of the largest markets for ED medications. However, cultural and regulatory factors have presented challenges for the widespread acceptance and usage of Viagra in China. Despite the prevalence of ED, many Chinese men have opted for traditional remedies, such as acupuncture and herbal medicine, to treat their condition. Nevertheless, the market for ED medications in China is expected to grow, driven by an ageing population and an increased awareness of the condition. In addition to China, Viagra has also had a significant impact on the pharmaceutical landscape in Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East, further illustrating its global reach.

Shaping the Future

As the global market for ED medications continues to expand, driven by factors like an ageing population and increased ED prevalence, industry revenue is projected to reach $7.1 billion by 2026. This growth has also spurred significant investment in research and development for new drugs and therapies. In recent years, there has been a focus on finding more targeted and personalised treatments, as well as exploring the potential of gene therapy and stem cell research to treat ED. However, Viagra remains the most widely prescribed medication for ED, holding a market share of over 50%. As we reflect on the 27th of March and the groundbreaking approval of Viagra, its impact on men’s health and the economy can still be felt today. The little blue pill continues to lead the way in treating ED and revolutionising the approach to this common sexual disorder.

Did you know?

In the olden days, the view of erectile dysfunction (ED) varied across different cultures and societies, often shrouded in myths, misconceptions, and stigma. Many ancient cultures attributed ED to supernatural causes, such as curses or the wrath of the gods, resorting to prayers, rituals, and amulets as remedies. In some societies, ED was seen as a sign of weakness or a lack of masculinity, leading to stigmatization and ridicule of men suffering from the condition. Traditional Chinese medicine considered ED a result of an imbalance in the body’s vital energies or blockages in energy channels, with herbal remedies and acupuncture commonly used as treatments. In ancient Greek and Roman cultures, physicians acknowledged the physical nature of ED, prescribing various treatments like natural aphrodisiacs, bloodletting, and even surgical procedures. However, moral failings or a lack of self-control were often still associated with the condition.