GlaxoSmithKline plc has acquired from Roche Group exclusive rights to the weight-loss medicine, orlistat, for over-the-counter (OTC) use in markets outside the US, excluding Japan. GSK anticipates filing orlistat for OTC approval in Europe and certain key international markets by the end of 2007.

Earlier this month, GSK has received FDA approval to market OTC orlisat in the USA under the brand name alli, and expects to launch alli during the summer.

John Clarke, president, GSK Consumer Healthcare, commented, "Today's agreement strengthens GSK's innovative consumer healthcare portfolio, and gives us the opportunity to globalise our efforts around OTC orlistat. This exclusive license is also testament to GSK's ability to successfully switch prescription medicines to over-the-counter status and collaborate well with our partners. Alongside our smoking control franchise, we now have brands dedicated to addressing two of the world's major health issues: smoking and obesity."

In another transaction, GSK and Roche have also agreed to settle all arbitration procedures between the two companies relating to the licensing and co-marketing of carvedilol.

Financial terms of both agreements remain undisclosed. As part of the licensing agreement, Roche will receive an upfront payment from GSK; this will be offset by a payment made by Roche to GSKas a part of the settlement agreement.