Risk of Viagra vision loss, hearing loss and other side effects not disclosed in recent ad
Pfizer, the makers of Viagra, recently received a harsh warning letter from the FDA about an internet ad which promoted their impotence drug without disclosing “any risk information.” The video appeared on CNN.com hailing the benefits of the medication without any mention of the risk of Viagra vision loss, hearing side effects, or any of the other safety information required by the FDA advertising rules.
>>PRIOR POST (10/19/2007): Viagra Hearing Loss Side Effects
The 30 second advertisement features a group of country musicians singing about the benefits of the erectile dysfunction drug in a song called “Viva Viagra.” The song is played to the tune of the famous Elvis Presley song, “Viva Las Vegas.” Although the ad starts with a superimposed message indicating to “see the important safety information on this page”, no risk information was posted anywhere in the video or elsewhere on the web page about the Viagra side effects.
The safety information about Viagra vision loss and hearing side effects was supposed to be contained in a companion banner displayed on the web page while the video played. However, Pfizer ran the internet video on CNN.com without the accompanying banner and no information was provided about possible side effects of Viagra.
The April 16 FDA warning letter, which was made public yesterday, indicates:
“The video raises public health and safety concerns through its complete omission of risk information for Viagra by suggesting that Viagra is safer than has been demonstrated.”
Pfizer Inc. released a statement in response to the FDA warning letter, indicating that the information was omitted as a result of a web site error. To prevent further problems, they have recalled all internet-based video advertisements featuring the 30 second Viva Viagra spot, which require a companion banner with appropriate risk information to appear at the same time the video plays.
FDA regulations require that drugmakers provide adequate information about a drug’s negative side effects in any advertisements which highlight the benefits. The Viagra prescription information currently indicates that the medication should not be used by men taking heart drugs, known as nitrates. It also warns about possible sudden Viagra vision loss and hearing loss associated with the use of the drug, as well as about other potential side effects.
Viagra generates annual sales of approximately $1.8 billion a year, and it is also one of the most heavily advertised medications in direct to consumer campaigns encouraging individuals to ask their doctors about Viagra.
VIAGRA LAWSUITS
The lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. represent individuals who are pursuing Viagra lawsuits as a result of sudden vision loss and hearing loss associated with the medication. Viagra vision problems could occur within 48 hours of taking the drug, with symptoms such as loss of vision in one eye or both eyes, blurred vision, blue tinted vision or white spots. There has also been a connection between Viagra and sudden hearing loss which can occur within a few hours of taking the drug.
If you, a friend or family member have suffered Viagra vision loss or hearing loss side effects, request a free and confidential claim evaluation.
1 Comment • Add Your Comments
Thanh says:
I had hearing loss in my right ear after using Viagra about a year ago but didnot make the connection because I was unaware of Viagra potential side effect. I have gone to sevral specialists such as ENTs and neurologists but there was there wasnot anything I can do to reverse the problem.
Posted on May 12, 2008 at 7:38 am