GlaxoSmithKline reports 16 percent drop in U.S. OTC sales

LONDON GlaxoSmithKline on Wednesday reported a 16 percent decline in its U.S. sales of over-the-counter-medicines, to $253.6 million for the three months ending Sept. 30. The decline included double-digit decreases across its Tums franchise and the weight loss drug alli of 16 percent and 50 percent, respectively. Tums and alli each generated approximately 29.5 million in revenue.

GSK’s largest OTC division—the company’s smoking cessation products—were up 2 percent to $98.2 million. And while sales of Breathe Right are presently down 8 percent to $21.3 million, this cough/cold season may spell opportunity for the Breathe Right brand as a drug-free alternative to pediatric cough-cold medicines.