Viking Therapeutics Forms Strategic Alliance With CordenPharma for VK2735 Production

Viking Therapeutics and CordenPharma Agreement

In a significant step for the biopharmaceutical sector, Viking Therapeutics, Inc. has announced a comprehensive, multi-year manufacturing agreement with CordenPharma that aims to bolster the production of its innovative therapy VK2735. This partnership positions Viking to meet substantial anticipated demand for VK2735, a dual receptor agonist poised to tackle obesity and associated metabolic disorders.

Key Elements of the Agreement

The partnership secures dedicated manufacturing capacity for a substantial annual output of VK2735's active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) along with final product forms. Viking has ensured the capability to manufacture multiple metric tons of VK2735 API each year, alongside a commitment for 100 million autoinjectors and 100 million vials and syringes for subcutaneous administration. Furthermore, the agreement allows for an impressive annual production capacity exceeding one billion oral tablets of VK2735, with options for expansion.

Brian Lian, CEO of Viking Therapeutics, expressed enthusiasm about this partnership, emphasizing CordenPharma's expertise in commercial peptide manufacturing and their ability to fulfill projected commercial needs. This collaboration convinces Viking of the capacity to bring VK2735 to market at the level of supply necessary to meet patient demand.

Financial Terms of the Deal

As part of the agreement, Viking will make prepayments totaling $150 million between 2025 and 2028, which will be credited against future orders. This strategic financial planning underscores Viking's commitment to maintaining control over global rights to the VK2735 product under the arrangement while expecting to uphold standard pharmaceutical product margins.

About VK2735

VK2735 is a dual agonist targeting the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptors. Its design offers a promising approach to managing various metabolic disorders, particularly obesity. Currently, Viking is conducting the Phase 2 VENTURE-Oral Dosing Trial that administers VK2735 orally once daily for 13 weeks. The company plans to initiate Phase 3 trials for the subcutaneous formulation in the second quarter of 2025, aiming for comprehensive therapeutic solutions.

Understanding the GLP-1 and GIP Agonists

The activation of GLP-1 receptors has been proven to lower glucose levels, decrease appetite, support weight loss, and enhance insulin sensitivity in patients struggling with type 2 diabetes and obesity. Drugs like Semaglutide—available as Ozempic®, Rybelsus®, and Wegovy®—have demonstrated successes in clinical settings. Recent advancements in research suggest that co-activating the GIP receptor can further amplify the benefits of GLP-1 activation, a principle also seen in Tirzepatide—a currently marketed dual GLP-1/GIP agonist known as Mounjaro® and Zepbound®.

Viking Therapeutics' Vision

Viking Therapeutics stands at the forefront of biopharmaceutical innovation, determined to develop first-in-class therapies for metabolic and endocrine disorders. With three compounds under clinical trial evaluation, the company's focus on metabolic health is evident. Alongside VK2735, Viking is advancing VK2809, a selective thyroid hormone receptor beta agonist targeted at treating lipid disorders, and VK0214, intended for rare diseases such as X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy. Each project aims to improve patients' quality of life, demonstrating a commitment to medical advancement.

For the latest updates on Viking Therapeutics and their innovative treatments, visit www.vikingtherapeutics.com.

Conclusion

The collaboration between Viking Therapeutics and CordenPharma signifies a monumental step forward in the management of obesity and metabolic disorders. With the secure manufacturing capabilities and financial support, Viking is preparing to meet the anticipated demands of the market while delivering effective health solutions for patients. This partnership not only strengthens Viking's manufacturing foundation but also underlines their pivotal role in the biopharmaceutical landscape.