GlaxoSmithKline eyes over-the-counter diet pill

PHARMACEUTICAL giant GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) yesterday signalled its desire to become the first company to sell controversial diet drugs without prescription.

The multinational drug manufacturer asked the European Medicines Agency for permission to market Orlistat over the counter. The drug, which prevents the body fromabsorbing some fatty acids, was previously only available on prescription.

Orlistat has shown itself to be able to reduce weight by 5% in more than half of people tested.