Treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED) is becoming more affordable in South Africa as the drug prices continue to fall, with increased competition in the market leading to a drop in prices by an average of 33% over the past 11 years, and generics costing as little as R80 for a four-pack.
Fadhl Solomon, men’s health category manager for Pharma Dynamics, told Health-e News that with generic medication being brought into the market, costs had dropped significantly.
“There are now ten generic brands available, with more expected to follow in the coming months,” he said.
Underlying problems
Impotence affects about four out of ever 10 men over 40, according to estimates, but the figure could be even higher, as many patients are too embarrassed to seek treatment. It can also be linked to other health concerns like hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes, often a result of lifestyle factors such as obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption.
Pharma Dynamics, a major supplier of erectile dysfunction medication in South Africa, was the first to launch a generic equivalent of the originator to the market in 2012. The local market for prescription medication to treat impotence is worth R250m, and it continues to grow.
While fees differ from pharmacy to pharmacy, added Solomon, men can expect to pay less this year, thanks to the increased competition in the market.
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