Levitra orodispersible approved for Scotlands NHS

A convenient new drug to help men overcome erectile dysfunction has been approved by Scotland’s medical watchdog.

An estimated 2.3 million men are believed to suffer from erectile dysfunction in the UK, however market research suggests that only one in 10 receive treatment for the condition.

Levitra orodispersible, which is said to be the first and only orodispersible tablet for impotence, dissolves on the tongue without the need for a glass of water.

The research showed that 40% of sufferers regard existing therapies as “inconvenient”.

The “melt-in-the-mouth” drug was approved by the European Commission in September 2010 and launched in the UK in March this year. It was approved by the Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC) last week and will now be made available for use through NHS Scotland.

It is said to be more convenient than existing pills as it can be taken anywhere and the slim credit-card pack is more discreet than a usual pill-packet.

Manufacturers Bayer, who hope the drug will revolutionise treatment for men too embarrassed to seek help, say the formulation “de-medicalises” and helps to remove the stigma attached to impotence.

Each 10mg pack of Levitra orodispersible have anti-counterfeiting safety measures to prevent illegal internet websites selling fake versions.

Ian Russell, specialist practitioner in Andrology and Urology at Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary, said: “This is really good news for Scottish men. We have been waiting for Levitra orodispersible to be licensed for a while and are relieved that it has finally been approved.

“We feel that it will be particularly advantageous for the younger patients with diabetes and other medical conditions causing erectile dysfunction who will appreciate its advantages the most.”