JEDDAH, 2 May 2003 — Lilly announced this week the launch of Cialis in Saudi Arabia for the treatment of mild to severe cases of erectile dysfunction (ED). The Kingdom is the first country in the Middle East to market this product.
The benefits of Cialis, its maker claims, include a longer period of effectiveness of up to 24 hours in response to sexual stimulation.
This provides greater spontaneity than other remedies in the market; the remedy also does not negatively interact with food will also minimize the need for planning, according to Ahmed Refaei, country manager, Eli Lilly and Company, Saudi Arabia.
Experts say there is still a major unmet medical need in treating ED.
Professor Hartmut Porst from Hamburg, Germany, who has worked with thousands of couples struggling with the disorder, said: “Men are searching for a solution that lets them forget they have ED. This can only be achieved with a drug that combines a high level of efficacy and safety with the benefits of a spontaneous sex life.”
Cialis will be marketed in 20 mg tablet strength at SR145.55 per pack of four tablets through its sole distributor Saudi International Trading Company (Sitco).