#USA #San Diego #Viking Therapeutics #VK2735 #obesity management

Viking Therapeutics Initiates VK2735 Oral Maintenance Dosing Clinical Trial

Viking Therapeutics, Inc., a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company specializing in innovative treatments for metabolic and endocrine disorders, has announced the commencement of an exploratory clinical trial evaluating VK2735 in oral maintenance dosing for patients with obesity. This new study represents the second phase of a two-part maintenance trial initiated last year, expanding on the findings of earlier subcutaneous dosing regimens.

Understanding VK2735 and Its Importance

VK2735 is a dual agonist developed to target glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptors, both critical in managing metabolic functions related to obesity. This compound is currently undergoing evaluation in both oral and subcutaneous formulations. The aim is to find effective strategies to help individuals maintain weight loss following initial treatment.

The recent positive top-line results from Part 1 of the study provided supportive evidence regarding the efficacy of subcutaneous dosing in sustaining early weight loss achieved during the initial weeks of treatment. Part 2 is particularly intriguing, as it will delve into varying oral dosing regimens to discover the most effective maintenance method moving forward.

Study Design and Participants

The current maintenance dosing study is structured as a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial that will enroll around 195 adults classified as obese with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or above, provided they are in otherwise healthy condition. Participants will start with weekly subcutaneous doses of VK2735 or placebo for the first 21 weeks. After this period, they will transition to different dosing regimens, including:

• - Daily oral doses
• - Weekly oral doses
• - Monthly subcutaneous doses
• - Every-other-week subcutaneous doses
• - Placebo

The objectives of this study are to rigorously assess the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetic profile of VK2735 across these various dosing methods. Additionally, the research will explore changes in body weight from the baseline measurement and from Week 21 through to Week 33.

CEO Insights on the Trial

Brian Lian, Ph.D., CEO of Viking, expressed enthusiasm regarding the recent findings, emphasizing the potential of VK2735 to serve as a reliable means for long-term weight maintenance. He highlighted the importance of adhering to treatment protocols to maximize the benefits of weight loss, including lowered cardiovascular risks, improved physical capabilities, and enhanced quality of life. The goal is to offer patients flexible and effective options tailored to their unique weight loss journeys, ultimately fostering adherence to treatments and ensuring success.

Future Developments and Ongoing Research

Currently, Viking Therapeutics is also engaged in two Phase 3 clinical trials exploring the efficacy of subcutaneous VK2735 (jointly known as VANQUISH-1 and VANQUISH-2). These studies are designed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of VK2735 dosed weekly over 78 weeks. Both trials are fully enrolled, targeting adults with obesity or overweight conditions, and measuring various treatment arms with different VK2735 dosages.

As research continues, VK2735 aims to join the ranks of well-established GLP-1 and dual receptor agonists currently available, providing another avenue for patients seeking sustainable weight loss solutions.

Conclusion

Viking Therapeutics is committed to advancing its portfolio of pharmaceutical therapies aimed at obesity and related metabolic diseases. With ongoing studies, including the newly initiated oral dosing trial, Viking stands at the forefront of developing innovative solutions intended to foster long-lasting health improvements for individuals affected by obesity during a time when obesity rates continue to rise globally.

For more information on the company and its therapeutic developments, visit Viking Therapeutics website.