Islamabad: The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has finally approved, after years of resistance, the local production of Sildenafil citrate, commonly known as Viagra, a drug used to treat erectile dysfunction.

The decision, confirmed by officials on Monday, allows both local and multinational pharmaceutical companies to manufacture the drug within Pakistan.

During the 151st meeting of the DRAP Policy Board, the matter was thoroughly discussed and finally, a consensus was reached to grant registration to pharmaceutical companies interested in local production of Sildenafil citrate.

This policy shift is significant, as Sildenafil citrate was banned in Pakistan. However, despite the ban, it is estimated that over a million tablets are sold illegally in the country all over, smuggled from China, India, Thailand, England, Turkey, Egypt, and the United States.

Viagra and its different variants are among the most demanding items at pharmacies across Pakistan, and Pharmaceutical store owners sell it illegally to meet the ever-increasing demand.

DRAP had already approved sildenafil citrate in syrup form for children with pulmonary hypertension. The new decision to allow local production of the tablet form aims to meet demand and counter the illegal trade of Sildenafil citrate (Viagra) in Pakistan.