GSK's experimental drug, bepirovirsen, has demonstrated significant potential in treating chronic hepatitis B, with nearly 19% of patients achieving a functional cure in late-stage studies presented at a medical conference. This treatment offers a promising alternative to the current standard of lifelong antiviral pills, which only help 1% to 4% of patients clear the virus sustainably. The studies revealed that after six months of treatment, patients with surface antigen levels below 3,000 international units per millilitre (IU/ml) experienced a notable response rate, which increased to 26% among those with even lower levels. GSK aims for bepirovirsen to contribute to its goal of over £40 billion ($54 billion) in annual revenue by 2031, with expectations of peak sales surpassing £2 billion ($2.7 billion). The drug was generally well tolerated, with mild side effects reported. GSK is currently seeking regulatory approval in the U.S., Japan, China, and Europe, with a decision from the U.S. expected by October 26.