Viking Therapeutics Unveils Promising Results in Obesity Treatments with VK2735 Pipeline

Viking Therapeutics Reports 2025 Financial Results and Clinical Advancements

Viking Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: VKTX), a biopharmaceutical company focusing on innovative therapies for metabolic and endocrine disorders, recently announced its financial results for the fourth quarter and the entire year of 2025. The company also provided important updates regarding its clinical pipeline, particularly concerning its flagship obesity treatment, VK2735.

Significant Clinical Developments

The past year marks a transformative period for Viking Therapeutics, highlighted by advancements in its VK2735 clinical program. This dual agonist, addressing GLP-1 and GIP receptors, is currently undergoing Phase 3 trials under the name VANQUISH. The VANQUISH program consists of two clinical studies: VANQUISH-1, encompassing adults with obesity, and VANQUISH-2, targeting adults with both obesity and type 2 diabetes. Notably, enrollment for VANQUISH-1 was completed ahead of schedule, with over 4,500 participants recruited.

The company reported promising positive outcomes from the Phase 2 VENTURE study, where patients experienced substantial weight loss, with an average reduction reaching up to 14.7% after 13 weekly doses. Importantly, VK2735 demonstrated a favorable safety and tolerability profile, with mild gastrointestinal adverse events primarily occurring early in the treatment course.

Incorporating feedback from regulatory agencies, Viking plans to escalate the oral formulation VK2735 into Phase 3 trials expected in the third quarter of 2026. This dual formulation strategy—offering both oral and injectable administration—positions VK2735 uniquely against other competitive products in the market.

Financial Position and Forecast

As for financial results, Viking reported a significant net loss of $157.7 million for the fourth quarter, emphasizing an increase in research and development expenditures which totaled $153.5 million, up from $31 million in the previous year. This surge reflects the company's commitment to advancing its clinical studies and expanding its development capabilities.

Despite these losses, Viking maintains a robust cash position of $706 million, which will enable it to continue pursuing essential milestones without immediate fiscal pressure. The company emphasizes fiscal responsibility while strategically enhancing its operational framework in anticipation of its future growth trajectory.

Pipeline and Future Expectations

Apart from VK2735, Viking is also working on a dual amylin agonist aimed at addressing obesity and related disorders, with its Investigational New Drug (IND) application planned for submission this quarter. This adds another layer of promise to Viking’s obesity treatment arsenal.

In addition to the clinical developments and strategic financial management, Viking's leadership anticipates 2026 will be a landmark year. Dr. Brian Lian, CEO of Viking, expressed confidence in the company’s ongoing initiatives and the potential for VK2735 to significantly impact obesity treatment paradigms.

Conclusion

Viking Therapeutics is making remarkable progress in its mission to tackle obesity, evidenced by its ambitious clinical initiatives and solid financial groundwork. With upcoming Phase 3 trials for VK2735 on the horizon, the biopharmaceutical sector may soon witness breakthroughs that redefine treatment standards for obesity and metabolic disorders. The company’s dedication to developing and optimizing therapies positions it favorably for continued operational successes and advancements in health care delivery.