Viking Therapeutics Launches Phase 2 Trial for VK2735 in Obesity

Viking Therapeutics Launches Phase 2 Trial for VK2735 in Obesity

13-Week Study to Evaluate the Safety and Efficacy of Oral VK2735 Dosed Once Daily

Viking Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: VKTX), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, has announced an exciting development in the battle against obesity. They have initiated a Phase 2 clinical trial utilizing an oral tablet formulation of VK2735, a promising dual agonist targeting the glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptors. This initiative highlights Viking's commitment to discovering innovative solutions for metabolic and endocrine disorders.

Understanding the Phase 2 VENTURE-Oral Dosing Trial

The Phase 2 VENTURE-Oral Dosing Trial is a thoroughly designed, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled multicenter study. It aims to assess the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and weight loss efficacy of VK2735. Patients will participate in a 13-week program, where approximately 280 adults who are obese or overweight will receive either the VK2735 tablet or a placebo daily. By tracking the primary endpoint – the percentage change in body weight after the treatment period – researchers aim to gain significant insights into the formulation's effectiveness.

Key Objectives and Endpoints of the Study

The primary objective of the study is to determine the percent change in body weight from baseline after 13 weeks of treatment. Additionally, the trial will include secondary and exploratory endpoints assessing a range of safety and efficacy metrics. With patients evenly distributed across six dosing arms, the trial offers a robust method to evaluate the potential benefits of VK2735.

Encouraging Results from Prior Trials

Viking Therapeutics previously shared promising outcomes from a 28-day Phase 1 trial, which enrolled healthy volunteers with a higher body mass index (BMI ?30). Participants who received VK2735 revealed dose-dependent reductions in mean body weight, with results showing up to 8.2% reduction at the 28-day mark. These weight loss effects persisted even at follow-up visits, demonstrating that sustained treatment may yield further improvements.

Safety and Tolerability Observations

In the same trial, VK2735 exhibited an encouraging safety profile. A staggering 99% of treatment-emergent adverse events experienced by participants were mild or moderate in nature, reassuring stakeholders of the formulation's tolerability. These positive safety indicators are crucial as VK2735 moves forward in clinical trials.

Parallel Development of the Subcutaneous Formulation

Alongside the oral formulation, Viking is also making strides with a subcutaneous version of VK2735. Positive data from the Phase 2 VENTURE study of the subcutaneous formulation revealed substantial reductions in mean body weight, with outcomes that range up to 14.7%. The positive trend continued throughout the study duration, indicating sustained effects without plateauing.

Plans for Future Development

As Viking Therapeutics moves closer to Phase 3 development of the subcutaneous formulation expected in the first half of 2025, the company’s dedication to advancing obesity treatments becomes even more evident. The data gathered from these ongoing studies will be pivotal in potentially revolutionizing how obesity is managed.

Innovation in Metabolic Disorder Treatments

Viking Therapeutics is dedicated to creating groundbreaking therapies targeting metabolic disorders through an innovative approach. Their lead candidate, VK2735, represents a significant advancement in dual agonist technology, offering flexible treatment options for weight management. The need for effective and adaptable solutions in this area is ever-growing, and Viking is poised to make a notable impact.

About Viking Therapeutics, Inc.

Viking Therapeutics is committed to developing first-in-class and best-in-class therapies focused on metabolic and endocrine disorders. With a robust portfolio including VK2735 and VK2809, the company is actively engaged in clinical trials that showcase promising efficacy and safety profiles. Their ongoing research emphasizes a unique understanding of metabolism, aimed at improving patient outcomes and enhancing lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the VK2735 trial aiming to achieve?

The VK2735 trial seeks to evaluate the safety, efficaciousness, and pharmacokinetics of the oral tablet formulation in patients with obesity.

How many people are participating in the trial?

Approximately 280 adults who are obese or overweight will participate in the trial.

What were the results of the prior Phase 1 trial?

The Phase 1 trial showed encouraging results, with participants experiencing weight loss of up to 8.2% by day 28.

What other formulations is Viking Therapeutics developing?

Viking is also developing a subcutaneous formulation of VK2735, which has demonstrated significant weight loss in prior trials.

What is Viking Therapeutics' mission?

Viking's mission is to develop innovative therapies that effectively treat metabolic and endocrine disorders, improving patients' quality of life.

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