United Kingdom: The first country with over-the-counter Viagra

In the United Kingdom, Viagra has been available over the counter since 2017.Pfizer's erectile dysfunction drug received approval for over-the-counter sales, making the UK the first country to grant it such status.

The non-prescription version of the drug is called Viagra Connect.

Viagra Connect

Viagra Connect can be found in pharmacies across the UK. It is designed to help men who have trouble achieving or maintaining an erection. However, not everyone can access it without a prescription. Pharmacists assess each individual's suitability before selling them Viagra Connect.

Comparison with the United States

In the United States, Viagra remains a prescription-only drug. That means it cannot be bought over the counter like in the UK. However, some online pharmacies claim to sell Viagra without a prescription. These are often shipped from Canada to the US, with a cost of $0.26 per pill.

Online pharmacies and potential risks

While purchasing Viagra from online pharmacies without a prescription might seem convenient, it can be risky and potentially harmful to one's health. It is essential to obtain a prescription from a healthcare provider before using Viagra, as some "online pharmacies" may sell counterfeit or unsafe products.

Laws and regulations in other countries

Laws regarding the sale of Viagra vary across the world. In some countries, it might be available over the counter, while in others, a prescription is required. The Medicine Equity and Drug Safety Act (MEDS), enacted in 2000, would have allowed prescription drugs to be imported into the US under certain conditions, but it does not apply to Viagra.

Checking local laws for Viagra availability

Before attempting to purchase Viagra, it is crucial to check the local laws and regulations governing the sale of the drug in the specific country. This will help ensure that you are abiding by the rules and obtaining the medication safely and legally.

Potential future changes in over-the-counter availability

Large retailers and national pharmacy chains, such as Walmart and Walgreens, are among the most common places to find over-the-counter Viagra in countries where it is legal. As regulations change and the demand for the drug increases, it is possible that more countries will consider allowing over-the-counter sales of Viagra in the future.