It’s Valentine’s Day, the day of romance, which means an abundance of chocolates, flowers, and…Viagra?
We were wondering whether prescriptions for erectile dysfunction (ED) drugs like Viagra and Cialis take a leap before Valentine’s Day, and since we happen to have a little extra time, we ran the numbers. It turns out we were right: Valentine’s is a popular time to pop a Viagra.
But it turns out it’s not the most popular time.
Here are the most (and least) romantic times of the year, based on a representative sample of erectile dysfunction prescription claims across the U.S.
1) New Year’s Eve (52% higher than annual average)
The largest amount of ED drug fills are in the days leading up to New Year’s Eve – with fully 52% more prescriptions than the annual average fill rate. Our scientific hypothesis: people are planning for their New Year’s kiss.
2) 4th of July (50% higher than annual average)
Apparently, the week before Independence Day is an exciting time of the year, as well. The long weekend brings BBQs, parades, and plenty of fireworks. Ahem.
3) March 4th (46% higher than annual average)
A weird one, but this day has seen an especially high amount of prescription fills for erectile dysfunction drugs for the past two years. Maybe people are actually ‘marching forth?’
4) April Fools Day (44% higher than annual average)
We have no idea what’s going on here, but April 1st has been a very popular day for ED fills for the past two years. Interestingly, ED prescription fills are very low for the rest of April. We’re not sure why.
5) Valentine’s Day (40% higher than annual average)
The week before the supposed “most romantic day of the year” comes in at fifth in terms of prescription fills for ED medications, exceeding the annual fill rate by 40%. Perhaps it’s so romantic that people don’t need help?
And the least romantic time of year?
Christmas Day (9x lower than the national average)
While the days leading up to Christmas see more ED fills, only a handful of people are filling on Christmas Day. It makes sense though – too much food and family (and few people are going to the pharmacy). Is mommy kissing Santa Claus?
And the most popular day of the week?
This one was no surprise. The most popular day to fill a prescription for Viagra or Cialis is… Friday. This makes sense; after all, Viagra has been dubbed ‘the weekend pill.’ And by Sunday or Monday, very few people are filling their ED prescription.
Why trust our experts?
