FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

COLD SORE SUFFERERS ARE TIGHT-LIPPED WHEN IT COMES TO KISSING

Bothersome blisters stop 54 per cent of sufferers from kissing loved ones

TORONTO, Ontario (May 22, 2003) -- Cold sores can mean less puckering up for sufferers. According to a recent Canadian survey conducted by Ipsos Reid, 54 per cent of cold sore sufferers said that their infections have stopped them from kissing loved ones such as partners, family members and friends. In addition, results of the survey show that 55 per cent of cold sore sufferers said their infections make them feel self-conscious, frustrated and/or embarrassed. Some cold sore sufferers (9 per cent) have gone as far as to cancel social engagements due to an outbreak.

"When I have a cold sore, I just want it to heal as quickly as possible," said Chantal Boisvert, a long-time cold sore sufferer. "I have always wished that there was a simple treatment that I could take for just one day that would heal my cold sores faster."

TREATMENT AT THE FIRST TINGLE

With the approval of Valtrex (valacyclovir hydochloride) by Health Canada, the first one-day, oral antiviral medication indicated for the treatment of cold sores, sufferers have an option for treating their infections. Shown to reduce the pain and duration of a cold sore when taken at the first 'tingle', itching, burning or early signs of an outbreak, Valtrex may ease discomfort of those who suffer from these bothersome blisters.

"Valtrex is taken for just one day. It stops the growth of the virus at the source," said Dr. K.A. Papp, dermatologist and President of Probity Medical Research. "Valtrex is able to not only shorten the duration of the cold sore, but also alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with cold sores more quickly than placebo."

ABOUT COLD SORES AND VALTREX

Commonly referred to as fever blisters, cold sores are highly contagious ulcers or blisters that form on the outer edge of the mouth, and generally last for seven to ten days. Those who suffer from cold sores typically feel a tingling sensation just beneath the surface of the skin before the blisters actually form. People with cold sores are advised to avoid kissing, or direct contact with the sores, and to wash their hands immediately after touching the sore.

It is estimated that 20 to 40 per cent of the adult population suffer from cold sores. Typically, cold sore sufferers will experience three to four outbreaks every year. Exposure to certain triggers including sunlight, stress, fatigue, and hormonal changes can cause a cold sore outbreak.

The recommended dosage of Valtrex for cold sores is two grams twice daily for one day only (24-hour period). The second dose should be taken approximately 12 hours after the first dose, but not less than six hours after the first dose. Therapy should be initiated at the earliest symptom of a cold sore (e.g., tingling, itching or burning). There are no data on the efficacy of treatment initiated after the development of clinical signs of a cold sore (e.g., blister, bump or open sore). Possible side effects with Valtrex for cold sores include headache and dizziness.

GLAXOSMITHKLINE INC.

GlaxoSmithKline - one of the world's leading research-based pharmaceutical and healthcare companies - is committed to improving the quality of human life by enabling people to do more, feel better and live longer. In Canada, GlaxoSmithKline employs approximately 1,800 people and is a top 25 investor in Canadian research and development, contributing more than $100 million annually. The company is also one of the top 10 corporate charitable donors, investing more than $7.5 million annually and is recognized as one of the 50 best companies to work for in Canada.

For further information about this news release, please contact:

Bev Warford/Amy Wood

Edelman

Tel.: (416) 979-1120

Catherine Jackson/Alison Steeves

GlaxoSmithKline Inc.

Tel.: (905) 819-3363

Valtrex® is a registered trademark, used under license by GlaxoSmithKline Inc.