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Viking Therapeutics Presents VK2735 Findings at ObesityWeek 2026

Viking Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: VKTX), a biopharmaceutical firm dedicated to developing innovative treatments for metabolic disorders, has recently shared compelling clinical data regarding its VK2735 obesity program at the Obesity Society's Annual Meeting, ObesityWeek 2026, held in Washington, D.C. from November 14 to 17, 2026. This data showcases the potential of VK2735, a dual agonist targeting the glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptors, in treating obesity and related metabolic conditions.

Key Findings from the VENTURE Clinical Trial

In a detailed analysis of the Phase 2 VENTURE trial results, presented during a poster session, Viking highlighted the substantial impact of weekly subcutaneous injections of VK2735 over 13 weeks. Notably, 74% of participants treated with VK2735 reported an improvement of at least one BMI category, notably surpassing the 15% improvement seen in the placebo group. Remarkably, none of the participants receiving VK2735 experienced an increase in their BMI category, showcasing its effectiveness.

Among those who successfully improved their BMI categories, significant reductions were noted in waist circumference, fasting insulin and glucose levels, blood pressure, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL cholesterol. This improvement in cardiometabolic parameters underscores the multifaceted benefits of VK2735.

Detailed Results

Viking's analysis detailed the shifts in BMI categories from baseline to week 13 among participants. Here’s a snapshot of the findings:

• - For individuals with Class III obesity (BMI ≥ 40), 57% transitioned to Class II obesity, and 11% moved to Class I obesity.
• - Among those with Class II obesity (BMI ≥ 35), 80% transitioned to Class I.
• - In the Class I category (BMI ≥ 30), 65% moved to the overweight category, and 9% achieved a normal weight.
• - Notably, participants with overweight (BMI ≥ 25) saw a 50% rate of transitioning to normal weight by the end of the study.

These findings vividly illustrate the potential of VK2735 in offering significant health improvements for patients struggling with obesity.

Cardiometabolic Health Improvements

Beyond weight loss, the data indicated notable advancements in several key cardiometabolic markers among VK2735-treated participants. These include:

• - A reduction in hemoglobin A1C levels, indicating better blood sugar control.
• - Lower glucose and triglyceride levels.
• - A meaningful decrease in waist circumference.
• - Improvements in systolic and diastolic blood pressure among treated individuals.

Dr. Brian Lian, CEO of Viking Therapeutics, emphasized the promising nature of these outcomes, articulating that VK2735 may offer invaluable health improvements by effectively managing obesity.

Ongoing and Future Research

In addition to the VENTURE trial, Viking Therapeutics is pushing forward with the Phase 3 VANQUISH-2 clinical trial. This ongoing study focuses on evaluating VK2735 in adults with obesity and type 2 diabetes. Presentations during ObesityWeek also highlighted the baseline characteristics of participants, reinforcing the study’s relevance to the broader U.S. population struggling with these health challenges.

The VANQUISH program, initiated in June 2025, aims to assess the efficacy and safety of VK2735, administered via subcutaneous injection weekly for 78 weeks. Researchers intend to analyze the percentage change in body weight and several secondary endpoints assessing safety and efficacy, including long-term weight maintenance strategies.

Conclusion

As Viking Therapeutics advances its innovative VK2735 program, the company remains committed to addressing obesity and its associated metabolic disorders. With significant data showcased at ObesityWeek and ongoing clinical trials, VK2735 emerges as a promising therapeutic candidate, potentially reshaping the landscape of obesity treatment. For those seeking additional information on Viking Therapeutics and its current developments, visiting their official website at vikingtherapeutics.com is highly recommended.