GlaxoSmithKline (formerly SmithKline Beecham) is developing mepolizumab 
(SB-240563), a monoclonal antibody directed against IL-5, as a potential 
treatment for asthma and atopic dermatitis. Phase II trials in asthma were 
underway by April 1998 and by March 2002, phase II trials had also been 
initiated in atopic dermatitis.