United States-based Fervent Pharmaceuticals of Greenville, North Carolina has added Ernest Mario, PhD to its Board of Representatives, it was reported yesterday.

Dr Mario is an experienced pharmaceutical executive and a recipient of the 2007 Remington Medal from the American Pharmacists' Association, pharmacy's highest honour. Throughout his career, he has worked in drugstore pharmacy, research, and management in several pharmaceutical companies. He was named chief executive of Glaxo in 1989. He led Glaxo's growth as it introduced five major products to the market and grew profits by 15%. He served as CEO of ALZA Corporation from 1993 until it was acquired by Johnson & Johnson in 2001. He then served as CEO of Reliant Pharmaceuticals Inc until its acquisition by GlaxoSmithKline. He is chairman of Soleno Therapeutics and a Venture Partner with Pappas Ventures in Research Triangle Park. He has served as a trustee of Rutgers University, the University of Rhode Island, and Duke University, where he was previously chairman of the Duke University Health System. Dr Mario continues to devote his time to working with several charitable organisations and sitting on the boards of pharmaceutical companies. Dr Mario is joining the company's Board of Representatives as the company's upcoming treatment for the vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes and night sweats, is in its Phase II clinical trial.