GSK plc

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Glaxo Factory, Bunnythorpe, New Zealand 03
Glaxo feeder bottle with packaging
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Andrew Witty in 2015
GSK logo 2014

GSK plc (formerly GlaxoSmithKline plc) is a British multinational pharmaceutical company headquartered in Brentford, London. Established in 2000 by a merger of Glaxo Wellcome and SmithKline Beecham, GSK is one of the world's leading research-based pharmaceutical and healthcare companies. The company is focused on creating a broad range of innovative medicines, vaccines, and consumer healthcare products.

History[edit | edit source]

The origins of GSK can be traced back to a small apothecary shop in London, opened in 1715. The company's modern history began with the merger of Glaxo Wellcome and SmithKline Beecham in 2000, a union that combined two companies with rich histories in pharmaceuticals and healthcare. This merger was aimed at creating a global powerhouse in the pharmaceutical industry, capable of investing heavily in research and development (R&D) to deliver a new generation of medicines and healthcare products.

Operations[edit | edit source]

GSK operates globally, with a wide-reaching network that includes operations in more than 100 countries. The company's business is organized into three main areas:

1. Pharmaceuticals – focusing on the development and commercialization of medicines in a range of areas, including respiratory diseases, HIV/AIDS, oncology, and immunology. 2. Vaccines – GSK is one of the world's leading vaccine producers, with a portfolio that includes vaccines for influenza, hepatitis, rotavirus, and cervical cancer, among others. 3. Consumer Healthcare – producing a range of over-the-counter medicines, oral health products, and nutritional products.

Research and Development[edit | edit source]

GSK has a strong commitment to research and development, investing billions annually in R&D. The company's R&D efforts are focused on discovering new medicines and vaccines, as well as improving existing treatments. GSK's R&D strategy involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including academic institutions, governments, and other pharmaceutical companies, to accelerate the development of innovative healthcare solutions.

Corporate Social Responsibility[edit | edit source]

GSK has been recognized for its efforts in corporate social responsibility (CSR), particularly in improving access to medicines in developing countries. The company has implemented various programs aimed at reducing the prices of medicines and vaccines for the poorest populations and investing in healthcare infrastructure in these regions. GSK also actively participates in partnerships and alliances to combat diseases prevalent in developing countries, such as malaria and HIV/AIDS.

Controversies[edit | edit source]

Like many large pharmaceutical companies, GSK has faced its share of controversies, including allegations of unethical marketing practices, patent disputes, and litigation over side effects of its products. The company has made efforts to address these issues by implementing stricter compliance policies and engaging in transparent communication with stakeholders.

Future Directions[edit | edit source]

GSK continues to focus on innovation in healthcare, with an emphasis on developing new medicines and vaccines that address unmet medical needs. The company is also exploring new technologies and approaches, such as gene therapy and advanced manufacturing techniques, to improve the delivery and effectiveness of healthcare products.


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD