Viking Advances in Obesity Drug Development, Targets Profitable Market

Viking Therapeutics recently announced the primary results from its Phase II VENTURE trial, highlighting the weight reduction efficacy of VK2735, a GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist. The 13-week trial demonstrated a significant weight loss in overweight and obese individuals. Patients administered with the 2.5-mg dose saw a 9.1% reduction in weight, while the placebo group experienced a 1.7% decrease. This effect was dose-dependent, with the highest dose of 15-mg leading to a 14.7% weight loss.

All dosages of VK2735 resulted in substantial weight loss compared to the placebo group, with p-values indicating high statistical significance. A notably higher percentage of VK2735-treated patients achieved a weight loss of at least 10%, with 88% reaching this milestone at the maximum dose, in contrast to the 4% in the placebo group.

The drug's safety profile was generally favorable, with most treatment-related adverse events being mild. Gastrointestinal side effects were also generally mild or moderate, with a decrease in frequency over time. The rate of discontinuations was similar across the VK2735 dose groups and the placebo group. However, one case of serious adverse event, dehydration, was reported and was related to the study drug.

Viking's CEO, Brian Lian, noted the early and sustained weight loss observed in the study and suggested that extended dosing might lead to further reductions. Viking plans to continue the clinical development of VK2735 and is set to consult with the FDA on future steps.

The company is part of an expanding field targeting the obesity market, which is projected to grow significantly in the coming years. Currently, Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly lead the market with their respective products, but other major players are also developing their treatments. Boehringer Ingelheim is in Phase III trials for a GLP-1/glucagon receptor dual agonist, while Regeneron is working on muscle-preserving antibodies to enhance weight loss quality. Additionally, Indian pharmaceutical companies are entering the market with novel therapies and generic approaches.

The obesity treatment market is a competitive and lucrative field, with various companies striving to develop innovative solutions to address this growing health concern.