Erectile Dysfunction Drugs may Soon be Available Over the Counter

Eli Lilly & Co. states that erectile dysfunction (ED) drugs, including Cialis, may soon be available over-the-counter (OTC). The French drug maker Sanofi is waiting for approval from regulators to go forward with the project.

Both companies believe that if nonprescription drugs receive OTC approval, those who suffer from the condition can have easier access receiving help. Many believe that this would lower the amount of the drug bought online, which may not always be safe. Previous studies have also shown that many men have a difficult time discussing ED, which may cause them to buy the drug online.

A few OTC options currently exist in pharmacies that are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration, including dietary supplements that claim to enhance male potency, such as ExtenZe and Libido-Max, according to Fox News.

"The experience we have in the prescription setting gives us confidence in the nonprescription setting," said David Ricks, who heads Lilly's biomedicines unit, via the Wall Street Journal.

However, getting complete approval may not be so easy. For instance, one of the side effects of Cialis is a sudden drop in blood pressure when taken along with other heart and blood pressure drugs. The company would need to demonstrate to regulators that men are aware of this risk when taking the product.

Sanofi is currently in the process of getting rights for the regulatory approval of OTC Cialis in the United States, Canada, Europe and Australia.