Pharmaceutical companies GlaxoSmithKline and Johnson & Johnson are the frontrunners in the bidding for Pfizer's consumer products division.

According to media reports, Glaxo has offered $15bn (€11.7bn) for Pfizer, while Johnson & Johnson's bid is said to be $14bn. Pfizer's consumer products unit is being sold as the company focuses more on its pharmaceutical business. The unit makes products such as Listerine mouthwash, Rolaids antacid, Sudafed and Lubriderm lotions.