Condom maker Durex announced last week the launch of a new condom produced in partnership with Futura Pharmaceuticals that could revolutionize the way men look at prophylactics. In fact, it may even give some incentive to slip into one. And its producer are hoping it may help them gain some ground against Trojan, which rules the U.S. condom market with a 75% share, compared to Durex's 6-8%.Dubbed "Viagra in a condom", the product is intended to help men who have difficulty staying erect or may feel inhibited by wearing a rubber. The condom tip contains a small amount of Zanifil gel, which will stimulate blood flow to the wearer's penis, resulting in a firmer, larger erection. An additive aids in quick absorption through the skin. The gel is derived from nitroglycerine, which dilates blood vessels (like Viagra, it raises levels of nitric oxide, but by a different mechanism). It acts pretty fast, so your little soldier won't be left dangling there like a deflated balloon animal.
So, is this a Viagra killer? Nah. There isn't any comparison yet of effectiveness, but I'd be willing to bet that a dab of Zanafril doesn't pack the same punch goof ol' Vitamin V. Plus there will be some people who won't be able to use this product. There's not been much mention of side effects, but it's guaranteed that the gel will give someone a rash (in a very uncomfortable spot), and if the condoms are latex, that precludes anyone with latex allergies. However, the product is likely to be popular with younger men who have occasional difficulty, confidence issues, or feel that Viagra is for geriatrics.
The condoms over-the-counter availability has been a selling point, but we could also see where that could be a drawback. When you slide these over to the checker at the drugstore, you're basically broadcasting to the world: I can't stay hard. So we predict there will be big bucks to be had selling these online. No word on a price tag, although the maker has said they will have a "premium" cost. Hmm. What could that mean? Something like $5.00 each?
The makers foresee another possible setback. Women buy about 40% of the condoms sold. Says Futura CEO James Barder: "If the packaging says it will give you a bigger penis, and a woman gives it to a man, it might cause a reaction, like 'What, you're saying my penis is small?'"
Or, "What, you're saying I can't stay hard long enough to satisfy you?"
Apparently without irony, Barder added:
"This area does have sensitivities. Positioning is critical."
Indeed.
