GlaxoSmithKline

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) is a British multinational pharmaceutical company headquartered in Brentford, London. Established in 2000 by a merger of Glaxo Wellcome and SmithKline Beecham, GSK was the world's sixth largest pharmaceutical company as of 2015.

History

Glaxo Wellcome and SmithKline Beecham announced their intention to merge in January 2000, with the merger completing in December of the same year, forming GlaxoSmithKline plc. The company has a primary listing on the London Stock Exchange and is a constituent of the FTSE 100 Index.

Operations

GSK's operations are divided into three global businesses: pharmaceuticals, vaccines and consumer healthcare. The company's pharmaceutical products include medicines in the areas of respiratory disease, HIV/AIDS, cancer, and immunology. GSK's vaccine business is one of the largest in the world, producing pediatric and adult vaccines for a range of infectious diseases. The consumer healthcare division produces oral healthcare products, nutritional drinks, and over-the-counter medicines.

Research and development

GSK has a strong commitment to research and development, with a focus on areas where the patient need is greatest and the science is most promising. The company's R&D efforts are focused on four therapeutic areas: respiratory, HIV/infectious diseases, oncology, and immuno-inflammation.

Controversies

Over the years, GSK has faced several controversies and legal challenges, including allegations of drug misbranding, failure to report safety data, and bribery. The company has responded to these challenges by implementing a range of compliance, training, and governance programs.

See also

• List of pharmaceutical companies
• Pharmaceutical industry in the United Kingdom

External links

• Official website