BUSINESS BRIEFING: PFIZER

Pfizer Inc. said Thursday it will warn paramedics and emergency-room
physicians not to treat patients on its impotence pill Viagra with
nitroglycerin.

The warning sent Pfizer shares down $3.69, to $109.12. Nevertheless, Pfizer
shares have more than doubled in the last year on prospects for Viagra. It
reached an all-time high of $121.75 on April 21.

Viagra's label already contains a warning that it shouldn't be used by those
taking organic nitrates such as nitroglycerin, primarily used to treat
angina, or chest pain.

Pfizer said it will send out 10,000 letters this week to emergency-room
personnel who might not realize they're treating Viagra users. Viagra, which
is easier to use than other impotence remedies on the market, became one of
the best-selling U.S. drugs after its April introduction.

Meanwhile, the nation's leading discount chains are vying in a Viagra price war.

Kmart Corp. has taken out national newspaper ads to promote its price of
$39.99 for a five-tablet prescription.

Checked-by: Melodi Cornett