The Food and Drug Administration approved the erectile dysfunction (ED) drug Viagra in 1998, and it quickly became one of the most popular drugs in the history of American medicine.  Since then, Viagra has earned Pfizer, the company the created and marketed Viagra, $1.73 billion in sales in 2002, $1 billion of which in the United States alone.  Viagra works by opening up capillaries so that blood can circulate, but unfortunately many men suffer a number of side effects because the drug opens blood vessels throughout the body which can cause a variety of serious side effects such as dizziness, runny nose, and light-headedness.

Perhaps the most dangerous side effect of Viagra is a condition called nonarteritic ischemic optic neuropathy, or NAION.  Lack of blood circulation to the optic nerve causes NAION, which eventually results in vision problems, color shifts, and possibly total and irreversible blindness.  Viagra basically causes a “stroke” inside the optic nerve of the innocent victim.

The Food and Drug Administration reported 48 reports of Viagra-induced blindness by May 27, 2005.  Pressure began to mount from public health safety groups, and the FDA recommended that Pfizer place a warning on the packaging of Viagra to warn users of the potential danger of blindness or other vision concerns.  Additionally, further study discovered that men with a history of cardiovascular problems were 10 times more likely to suffer damage to the optic nerve injury if they use ED drugs.

There is no reason a prescription drug should cause more harm than good. If you or someone you was the victim of Viagra use, you need to act quickly, because statute of limitation laws in your state restrict the amount of time you have to press your case.  You could lose the financial compensation you deserve.  Consult a knowledgeable and dedicated legal professional, and discover your rights today.