WARREN, N.J.— GlaxoSmithKline recently announced a multi-year partnership with the Arthritis Foundation to support scientific research, advocacy as well as virtual resources and community connections for the more than 30 million people in America living with osteoarthritis (OA). As part of the mission for an osteoarthritis cure, Voltaren Arthritis Pain is donating 100% of profits from pre-order of the product, which is the first and only prescription strength nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) topical gel for arthritis pain to be available over the counter, through May 12, to support the Arthritis Foundation’s goal to provide virtual care and connection to their patient community during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Osteoarthritis, which occurs when the cartilage between joints begins to break down and wear away, is one of the leading causes of disability in the U.S., affecting 1 in 7 adults. For the millions of people in America living with osteoarthritis, joint pain and stiffness are daily realities, and pain can worsen over time.

Jissan Cherian, marketing birector, Rx-to-OTC Switch at GSK Consumer Healthcare, said: “As the world leader in pain relief, we are dedicated to improving the quality of life for people living with OA joint pain. With so many of us sheltering-in-place or practicing social distancing, it’s more important than ever for osteoarthritis patients to have the right resources and support during this difficult time. Our newfound partnership with the Arthritis Foundation fuels our commitment to accelerate scientific discoveries to help patients living with OA reduce the pain that’s often invisible to others, and further the Foundation’s goal to provide virtual care and connection to their patient community. We’re excited to take the first step in that journey by donating 100 percent of our pre-order profits from Voltaren Arthritis Pain to support the Arthritis Foundation’s work.”

Cindy McDaniel, senior vice president, Consumer Health and Impact at the Arthritis Foundation, said: “Our partnership with GSK continues our quest to improve the quality of life for millions of people around the world living with arthritis. Together, we’ll champion the fight against arthritis and empower our community of patients, caregivers and advocates alike by fueling scientific research for a cure. In light of COVID-19, the partnership will also help provide new, virtual resources for OA patients to manage joint pain and foster advocacy within the community.”

The multi-year partnership kicked off  with GSK’s Voltaren Arthritis Pain pre-order period spanning until May 12 as part of the Arthritis Foundation’s Promotions that Give Back. Additionally, for every donation made to the Arthritis Foundation between May 13 and May 31, Voltaren will match up to $100,000. Voltaren Arthritis Pain will be available on shelves and online this spring.