GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) Consumer Healthcare announced that it has reached an agreement with Laclede, a privately held company, to purchase the leading Dry Mouth brand Biotene for $170 million. The transaction is subject to regulatory review by competition authorities in the United States and Europe, and is expected to complete by early 2009.

"The acquisition of Biotene extends our portfolio in therapeutic oral healthcare to include a proven treatment for Dry Mouth," said John Clarke, president, GSK Consumer Healthcare. "This opportunity leverages our global capability with dental and medical professionals and is a further step towards our goal in GSK of building and growing a diversified healthcare business."

Biotene is the world's number one dentist and hygienist-recommended Dry Mouth product for the growing population that suffers from this condition. Biotene is a brand in strong growth, with global sales in 2007 of around $50 million up 17 per cent. Approximately 65 per cent of the brand's current sales are in the United States.

Dry Mouth, a condition known as Xerostomia, is a significant health issue associated with chronic medical conditions that include diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren's syndrome and Parkinson's disease. Additionally, cancer chemotherapy or radiation treatment, as well as any of more than 400 medications that, as a side-effect, can cause Dry Mouth. Globally, Dry Mouth is as prevalent as dental sensitivity, affecting around one-in-five adults.

Biotene is a proprietary system founded on three enzymes: glucose oxidase, lactoperoxidase and lysozme, each found in healthy saliva.