#United States #San Diego #Viking Therapeutics #VK2735 #VK2809

Viking Therapeutics Unveils 2024 Fourth Quarter and Year-End Results

Viking Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: VKTX), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company specializing in innovative therapies for metabolic and endocrine disorders, recently reported its financial results for the fourth quarter and the entire year of 2024. This release also included significant updates on their clinical pipeline and corporate developments.

Key Highlights from 2024

Brian Lian, Ph.D., CEO of Viking, shared his excitement over the achievements of the past year, characterizing it as an incredibly productive time. The company reported favorable outcomes from four clinical trials, including:

• - The Phase 2 VENTURE study assessing VK2735, a dual agonist targeting obesity.
• - The Phase 1 study of an oral tablet version of VK2735.
• - The Phase 2b VOYAGE trial evaluating VK2809 for the treatment of metabolic dysfunction associated steatohepatitis (MASH).
• - The Phase 1b study for VK0214, focusing on X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD).

These studies not only met their primary and secondary objectives but also displayed what Viking believes to be best-in-class data. Furthermore, they announced the emergence of a new pipeline initiative aimed at developing dual agonists for amylin and calcitonin receptors, with preclinical tests revealing satisfying reductions in body weight.

Pipeline and Technical Advances

As 2025 approaches, Viking plans to initiate Phase 3 studies for subcutaneous VK2735 aimed at combating obesity, anticipated for the second quarter of the year. This agonist targets the GLP-1 and GIP receptors, showing substantial effectiveness in prior trials. In the Phase 2 VENTURE study, participants receiving VK2735 noted weight reductions of up to 14.7% relative to baseline, alongside a well-tolerated safety profile.

In parallel with developing a subcutaneous formulation, Viking is also advancing an oral tablet version, aiming to provide a user-friendly alternative for patients reluctant to use injections. Early trials of the oral VK2735 have illustrated encouraging dose-dependent weight loss, with markers such as HDL-C and triglycerides also improving.

Reaffirmed Safety and Efficacy

The advancement of VK2809, which targets metabolic disorders, has shown success through various endpoints in the recently completed Phase 2b VOYAGE trial. Significant reductions in liver fat content were observed, showcasing a potential dual benefit of treating both MASH and cardiovascular risks associated with lipid profiles.

Moreover, VK0214 has demonstrated promise in preliminary results regarding its effect on plasma levels of very long-chain fatty acids, a crucial factor in treating patients suffering from X-ALD.

Strong Financial Position

Despite facing some net losses—reported at $110 million for 2024 compared to $85.9 million in 2023—Viking's balance sheet remains robust, having concluded the year with cash and equivalents totaling a significant $903 million. The management is convinced this financial stability paves the way for necessary investments in clinical advancements.

Upcoming Investor Engagements

Viking’s leadership will participate in several key investor conferences, signaling a commitment to communicating ongoing developments and fostering investor relations. This includes events such as the Oppenheimer Healthcare Conference and the Leerink Partners Global Healthcare Conference, among others.

As Viking Therapeutics continues to navigate the challenges of clinical development within biopharmaceuticals, their ongoing research and developments carry substantial implications for the management of metabolic disorders. Stakeholders eagerly anticipate the results of ongoing trials and the introduction of innovative treatment options that may enhance patient lives.

For further details on Viking Therapeutics and their initiatives, visit their official website at www.vikingtherapeutics.com.