Blockbuster hopes for GSK

GLAXOSMITHKLINE'S potentially revolutionary inoculation against cervical cancer will take top billing as the drugs giant updates the market on its bulging pipeline of new vaccines later today.

The treatment, called Cervarix, is only one of a number of promising new pills and jabs under development.

Jean Stephenne, head of GSK's biologics division, will have news on a thriving portfolio of products that could generate £2.2bn in annual sales by 2010.

The City will be told that there are more than 20 new products in late-stage development, the most interesting of which will help protect the elderly from potential killers such as pneumonia and flu.

It is understood that GSK will announce a major expansion of production of its flu vaccine, Flurix, which is expected to get US regulatory approval this summer.

However, it is Cervarix that has generated the most excitement. Analysts estimate it could one day generate annual revenues of £2bn, putting it in the blockbuster category.