Viking Therapeutics' Investigational Oral Obesity Drug Shows Reduced Weight In Small Study

Tuesday, Viking Therapeutics Inc VKTX released results from the company’s Phase 1 multiple ascending dose (MAD) trial of an oral tablet formulation of VK2735 in development for metabolic disorders such as obesity. 

The 28-day MAD study results highlight signs of clinical activity following treatment with oral VK2735. 

Related: Viking Therapeutics’ Weight Loss Study Data Outperformed Novo Nordisk, Eli Lilly Studies, Analysts Say.

Cohorts receiving VK2735 demonstrated dose-dependent reductions in mean body weight from baseline, ranging up to 5.3%. 

Cohorts receiving VK2735 also demonstrated reductions in mean body weight relative to placebo, ranging up to 3.3%. 

For doses ≥10 mg, placebo-adjusted reductions in mean body weight were maintained or improved at Day 34, six days after the last dose of VK2735 was administered, ranging up to 3.6% relative to placebo. 

An exploratory assessment of the proportion of subjects achieving at least 5% weight loss after 28 days demonstrated that up to 57% of VK2735-treated subjects achieved ≥5% weight loss, compared with 0% for placebo. 

“We believe these data indicate that longer treatment duration, at potentially higher doses, may result in additional weight loss. We are particularly pleased with the initial safety and tolerability data, which suggest a differentiated profile with minimal gastrointestinal-related side effects…We look forward to exploring longer treatment windows and potentially higher doses in an upcoming Phase 2 trial,” said CEO Brian Lian.

Oral VK2735 demonstrated encouraging safety and tolerability following 28 days of once-daily dosing.

Based on weight loss data and the safety and tolerability results, the company has elected to continue with dose escalation in this study. 

Viking also plans to initiate a Phase 2 trial of oral VK2735 in patients with obesity in the second half of 2024.

Price Action: VKTX shares are up 20.90% at $83.64 on the last check Tuesday.