UK men will be able to access an erectile dysfunction (ED) medicine over the counter for the first time after the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA)’s approval of a POM to P switch for sildenafil.

Viagra Connect will be available to men aged 18 and over without a prescription, MHRA confirmed after the conclusion of an extensive review process including a public consultation. To be launched in spring 2018, supply will be subject to a pharmacist’s assessment of the product’s suitability for men presenting with concerns around ED symptoms, manufacturer Pfizer has said.

Reacting to the news, president of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society Ash Soni said: “The switch will increase access to a medicine that has been proven safe and effective through over 15 years of use by many millions of men, and provides a genuine and safe source of supply of one of the world’s most counterfeited medicines. 

“One of the underlying causes of ED is cardiovascular disease, so this move will also bring more men into the healthcare system where they can get proper advice and referral to their GP if necessary for further treatment.”