MetaVia Announces Promising Results from Phase 1b Study of DA-1726 in Obesity Management

MetaVia's Phase 1b Trial Results for DA-1726: A Game Changer in Obesity Treatment

MetaVia Inc., a biotechnology company focused on cardiometabolic diseases, has unveiled impressive findings from its Phase 1b clinical trial of DA-1726. This trial, which evaluated the drug's efficacy for treating obesity, produced statistically significant results that could change the treatment landscape.

Overview of the Trial

The trial extended to eight weeks, examining the effects of a non-titrated 48 mg dosage of DA-1726, a new dual oxyntomodulin analog. The results suggest that DA-1726 not only aids in weight loss but also enhances metabolic functions, which is crucial for individuals dealing with obesity-related complications.

Key Findings

Weight Loss and Waist Circumference Reduction

By day 54, participants experienced an average weight loss of 9.1%, equating to approximately 21.2 lbs. Furthermore, waist circumference reduced by an impressive 9.8 cm (about 3.8 inches). These results indicate DA-1726's effectiveness in targeting visceral fat, which is often more challenging to reduce compared to subcutaneous fat.

Improvement in Glycemic Control

Participants showed a significant 12.3 mg/dL reduction in fasting glucose levels, contributing to improved metabolic health. This is particularly vital as a large percentage of obese individuals also contend with conditions like diabetes or prediabetes.

Liver Health Benefits

Using vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTE), a 23.7% reduction in liver stiffness was noted, providing evidence of DA-1726's positive impact on liver health, further supporting its dual function as both weight-loss and liver-protective medication.

Clinical Implications

Hyung Heon Kim, MetaVia’s CEO, expressed optimism about these results, emphasizing the potential of DA-1726 to become a leading treatment option. The favorable profile, including mild to moderate gastrointestinal side effects and no discontinuations due to treatment, shows its promise for long-term use.

The dual-action of DA-1726 targeting both glucagon-like peptide-1 receptors (GLP1R) and glucagon receptors (GCGR) provides a unique approach to treating obesity. This mechanism is posited to create a balance between appetite suppression and energy expenditure, theorized to be more effective than existing GLP-1 agonists alone.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, the company plans to initiate titration studies over the next 16 weeks. This step aims to assess DA-1726’s effectiveness further, with results anticipated in late 2026. With its positive trial outcomes, MetaVia may be well-positioned to secure a competitive advantage in obesity pharmacotherapy.

The Phase 1 trial was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving obese but otherwise healthy adults with BMI ranging from 30-45 kg/m2. The findings not only underscore DA-1726's strong potential as an obesity treatment but also highlight its secondary benefits for metabolic dysfunctions.

In conclusion, with its significant clinical advancements, MetaVia and its DA-1726 compound may very well usher in a new era in the fight against obesity, offering hope to millions affected by this pervasive issue.