Pfizer Ltd., the Indian unit of Pfizer Inc., launched blockbuster drug Viagra in the country, aiming to treat some of the estimated 90 million Indians suffering from erectile dysfunction.

The billion-dollar drug would initially launch in 30 cities, seven years after it first hit the US market.

A 50 milligram tablet is priced at Rs. 463 rupees and 100 mg at Rs. 594 a tablet, on par with prices in other Asian countries, but more than 10 times the price of generic alternatives. Viagra sales in the Indian grey market are worth about 70 million rupees.

The drug, imported from France, will be distributed by Pfizer's local unit, which would earn the revenue and profits.

Viagra is Pfizer's second high-profile launch in India this year, after VFend, a drug to treat fungal disease, in January.

(www.financialexpress.com)