HEALTH services in Gloucestershire could save millions from copy-cat Viagra drugs that are expected to flood the market.
A patent on the drug, used to treat a variety of medical conditions including erectile dysfunction, has expired allowing other companies to market their own version of the drug.
The drug, manufactured by American firm Pfizer in Ireland, must now compete against dozens of generic competitors.
In the last three years, 37,000 prescriptions have been made on the drug, costing the NHS more than £1million.
It is thought new re-branded drugs could cost up to 90 per cent less than Viagra, with the same effect.
The drug is also commonly prescribed to treat heart conditions.
There are 120 alternative versions made worldwide, with some costing as little as 85p per pill. Pfizer has released a cheaper, generic 'white diamond' version this week.