The history of Viagra is a particularly interesting one. Developed over a decade ago, but in research for almost 25 years, the Pfizer Viagra story is one of persistence, success, defeat, and fortune. In just 10 short years, sales of Pfizer's Viagra have soared to over $4 billion per year.

Impotence and erectile dysfunction are one of the most common medical issues faced by men in the modern age. Given our busy workloads, long working days, and external stresses which continue to plague us, it is hardly surprising that people have trouble getting it up.

Hence, it may be the case that Viagra came about in the right place at the right time, and coupled with a heavy marketing and clever tactics of sale - was able to take off and reach its current status in the market.

The Initial Development Phase

The Pfizer Viagra story begins many years ago. Many people are surprised to learn that Viagra was actually first developed for a completely different problem than sexual dysfunction. Once trials began on the chemical compound “Sildenafil” - which is the active ingredient in Viagra - it soon became apparent that this drug could be used to treat sexual dysfunction, and many other issues in regards to the inability to perform sexually.

Research continued into the drug, and it was soon found that the following benefits could be gained from consumption of Viagra:

• Increased libido
• More feelings of pleasure  during sex
• Prolonged ejaculation
• Faster and stronger erections

Evidently, Pfizer Viagra was submitted to the FDA for approval as a drug specifically targeted at men with problems in these areas.

Growth of Popularity

The takeoff popularity is due to a number of factors. Clearly, Pfizer Viagra was marketed in a huge campaign when it was launched - not only in America but around the world. This provided a base for sales.

However, arguably a more important factor in the growth and popularity of Viagra was the widespread discussion and “word of mouth” campaign which followed. Unlike many other drugs, Viagra produces tangible results which can be felt almost every time it is consumed. Therefore, people began recommending it to their friends and family - and hence prescriptions started to flow off the shelves.

Following this, Internet sales of Viagra began to soar as consumers shopped around instead of heading straight to their pharmacy to fill their prescriptions. And this brings us to the modern day situation, where Pfizer Viagra is the leading drug throughout the world.