National Viagra Day recognizes a pivotal moment in medical history every March 27. It commemorates the U.S. FDA’s approval of Viagra, the first non-invasive oral treatment for erectile dysfunction. Take time to learn about men’s health, support research, and encourage open conversations about common conditions.
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History of National Viagra Day
Not a lot of medications can credit their discovery as a result of a side effect. In 1989, British scientists working for Pfizer, Peter Dunn and Albert Wood, set out to create a drug to treat high blood pressure and angina. Unfortunately, sildenafil citrate’s early trials in the early 1900s proved unsuccessful in treating heart disease. However, a curious side effect was shared by the clinical trial volunteers. An increase in erections was reported, typically within 30 to 60 minutes after taking the medication. It was then decided to be marketed instead as a drug to cure impotence. Pfizer’s patent for sildenafil was approved in 1996. A mere two years later on March 27, 1998, it was approved by the U.S. F.D.A. for the treatment of erectile dysfunction — the new clinical name for impotence.
To say that Viagra was a roaring success is an understatement. Though it was available by prescription only, it was marketed on television to reach the masses. It was offered over the internet as well. Customers were given free samples after filling in an online consultation form. Such direct-to-consumer marketing for prescription drugs was unheard of at the time. During the first quarter of its release, the little blue pill brought in a total revenue of $400 million. It went on to become the fastest drug ever to exceed $1 billion in annual sales.
As more generic E.D. drugs have become available in recent years, Viagra’s market share has shrunk. But there’s no denying that it has certainly enhanced the lives of many men — and women — worldwide.
National Viagra Day timeline
World War II veteran and ex-presidential candidate Bob Dole is hired for Viagra’s first T.V. ad.
T.V. show “Sex and the City” airs “The Man, The Myth, The Viagra,” in which Samantha’s character dates a Viagra-popping rich, older man.
Films starring aging male leads who continue to show physical, mental, and sexual prowess begin to gain popularity with the release of 60-year-old Sylvester Stallone’s movie “Rocky Balboa.”
The film is loosely based on the book “Hard Sell: Evolution of a Viagra Salesman,"
written by a former Pfizer employee Jamie Reidy who claimed to be the company’s leading Viagra salesman.
National Viagra Day FAQs
When is National Viagra Day?
In 2027, National Viagra Day is observed on Saturday, March 27, offering a weekend opportunity to engage with men’s health awareness and education.
How many men experience erectile dysfunction?
Across the globe, millions of men grapple with erectile dysfunction, making it a significant public health concern. The availability of treatments like Viagra has transformed the quality of life for many.
What is the significance of Viagra's FDA approval?
Viagra’s approval fundamentally changed the landscape of men’s health, offering a widely accessible and effective solution that empowered millions to address a previously stigmatized condition. It paved the way for further research and development in the field.
How does Viagra work?
The active ingredient in Viagra enhances the effects of nitric oxide, a natural chemical the body produces during arousal. This leads to the relaxation of muscles in the penis, allowing for greater blood flow and a firmer erection.
National Viagra Day Activities
Wear blue
Honor the male miracle pill by wearing its color from morning until night. Workout in a bright-blue tank top. Dress up in a navy suit for work. Change into a blue- and white-striped house shirt. Put on a sky-blue pair of pajamas to bed.
Go on a marathon date
How long can you last in the company of someone you love? Fill the day with activities you both enjoy and see how far into the day (and night) your love for each other will take you.
Watch movies starring older men and younger women
There are loads of these types of films in Hollywood. Examples like “Entrapment,” “Autumn in New York,” and “As Good as it Gets” all have actors who are at least 20 years older than their leading ladies.
5 Tips To Tame Viagra Side Effects
Use it under medical supervision
A doctor should perform a physical exam and know your complete medical history before prescribing any medication.
Buy it from a licensed pharmacist
Source it from a licensed pharmacist only, as buying from alternative channels like the internet could yield fake or unsafe medications.
Take as directed
Take the dose as prescribed at least 30 minutes before sexual activity and limit use to one tablet a day.
Lessen alcohol intake
Alcohol lowers blood pressure, which can cause dizziness and worsens erectile dysfunction.
Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice
Grapefruit or grapefruit juice have substances that slow down the breakdown of sildenafil in your body, increasing the risks of side effects.
Why We Love National Viagra Day
It celebrates a happy accident
Viagra came about as a surprising side effect of a medication meant for something else. This is proof that things that start as accidents can result in happy endings.
It urged men to be more open about their health
Most men don’t like talking about their problems. After the advent of Viagra, men were able to discuss what was once an embarrassing frustration. This candidness could aid them in sharing more health concerns with their doctor.
It made talking about sex less shameful
Viagra was marketed so heavily that it became a household name. It wasn’t taboo to talk about things like sex or sexual dysfunction out in the open anymore.
National Viagra Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2027 | March 27 | Saturday |
| 2028 | March 27 | Monday |
| 2029 | March 27 | Tuesday |
| 2030 | March 27 | Wednesday |
| 2031 | March 27 | Thursday |
