NEW YORK -- Surpassing analysts' expectations, Pfizer here has announced second-quarter earnings and sales increases of 37.4% and 24.7%, respectively -- results driven largely by the record-breaking launch of Viagra, the company's new erectile-dysfunction pill.
to June 26, 2.7 million prescriptions for Viagra were filled, Pfizer reported. More than 160,000 doctors have written prescriptions for the drug, pushing sales to $411 million during that period. Viagra will be available in 50 countries by the end of the year, the company said.
"While we are cautious that it is too early to make long-range projections about sustainable Viagra prescription levels, the initial response has been truly extraordinary," said William Steere Jr., chairman and chief executive officer. "Its strong acceptance by physicians and patients attests to Viagra's safety and efficacy and its benefits for many men and their partners."
