OTC slimming

Over-the-counter orlistat is expected to be available in the UK within the next two years.

Having secured OTC rights from Roche, GlaxoSmithKline has announced that it will be applying for a POM to P switch. An OTC product, containing 60mg orlistat, has already been approved in the US for use in conjunction with a low fat diet.

GSK has proposed an age restriction of 18 years to reduce possible abuse by teenagers.