Viagra Most Recognized Drug In U.S.

Viagra, Pfizer's erectile dysfunction treatment, has become the best-known prescription drug in the United States, according to a new study by healthcare consulting firm, Scott-Levin. The Pharmaceutical Company Image 1998 study surveyed 1,400 consumers, who recognized the product names Viagra (Pfizer, impotence; 34%), Pondimin (Wyeth-Ayerst, weight control, now withdrawn from market; 8%), Claritin (Schering-Plough, antihistamine, 7%) and Prozac (Eli Lilly, antidepressant; 5%) more than any others.

The most recognized pharmaceutical manufacturers were:

• Merck: 13%
• Pfizer: 12%
• Eli Lilly: 9%
• Bristol-Myers Squibb: 8%
• Glaxo Wellcome: 6%
• American Home Products: 5%

Sixty three percent of consumers could not recall any product names from news stories however, and only 23% were able to name a specific drug company. Consumers were more likely to be able to mention a product or company by name if they were chronic users of prescription drugs, 55 or older, college graduates, or medically educated, the study concluded.

For more information, Bryna Elder or Andreas Tsukada, Scott Levin, 60 Blacksmith Road, Newtown, PA 18940, USA. Telephone: 215-860-0440. Fax: 215-860-5477.