Pfizer Inc. announced that it has prevailed in its patent infringement action against Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.

“We are pleased that the court recognized the validity and enforceability of our Viagra patent for the treatment of erectile dysfunction,” said Amy Schulman, executive vice president and general counsel for Pfizer. “Protecting the intellectual property rights of our innovative core is critical, and Friday's court decision acknowledges Teva's clear violation of our patent rights.”

The court’s decision, which is subject to appeal, prevents Teva from receiving approval for a generic form of Viagra until October 2019. Litigation on the same patent remains pending against other generic companies, but no trials are scheduled in those other cases.

Pfizer strives to set the standard for quality, safety and value in the discovery, development and manufacturing of medicines for people and animals. Its diversified global health care portfolio includes human and animal biologic and small molecule medicines and vaccines, as well as nutritional products and many of the world’s best-known consumer products.