Viking Therapeutics Completes Enrollment for Phase 3 VANQUISH-2 Study of VK2735 for Obesity Treatment

Viking Therapeutics Completes Enrollment in Phase 3 VANQUISH-2 Trial of VK2735

Viking Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: VKTX), a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative treatments for metabolic disorders, recently announced a significant milestone: the completion of patient enrollment in its Phase 3 clinical trial known as VANQUISH-2. This trial is designed to evaluate VK2735, a dual agonist targeting the GLP-1 and GIP receptors, for potential use in treating obesity and type 2 diabetes.

The VANQUISH-2 study is carefully structured as a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial and aims to assess the efficacy and safety of VK2735 delivered via subcutaneous injections administered once weekly for an extended period of 78 weeks. Approximately 1,000 adults with either obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m²) or overweight status (BMI ≥27 kg/m²) and type 2 diabetes participated in the study. These enrolled individuals were randomly assigned to receive one of four treatment options: VK2735 at doses of 7.5 mg, 12.5 mg, 17.5 mg, or a placebo.

The primary goal of the VANQUISH-2 trial is to determine the percentage change in body weight of participants receiving VK2735 compared to those receiving the placebo, after completion of the 78-week treatment period, while secondary endpoints will further explore safety and efficacy indicators. These include tracking the number of patients who achieve various levels of weight loss—specifically reductions of 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%. After the primary trial duration, participants will have the opportunity to remain in a 52-week extension period during which they can continue with the treatment.

Brian Lian, Ph.D., the Chief Executive Officer of Viking, expressed enthusiasm about the trial's rapid enrollment, stating, "Completing enrollment in the VANQUISH-2 study is an important milestone for Viking as it is the second of our two registration studies to be fully enrolled. We are glad to see this study enroll quickly, reflecting the keen interest in new obesity treatments beyond what is currently available. We eagerly anticipate finalizing the VANQUISH studies in 2027."

Parallel to the VANQUISH-2 study, Viking Therapeutics is also conducting the VANQUISH-1 trial aimed at patients with obesity or those who are overweight, which reached enrollment completion back in November 2025. Moreover, the company is progressing with a Phase 1 study to assess various maintenance dosing regimens of VK2735, focusing on safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics. Initial results from the Phase 1 trial are expected to be disclosed in the third quarter of 2026.

Viking's commitment evident in its proactive approach to addressing obesity-related diseases aligns with recent positive findings from earlier clinical trials. Notably, the Phase 2 VENTURE study demonstrated VK2735’s safety and efficacy, reporting significant weight loss among participants compared to those receiving a placebo. An impressive mean weight reduction of up to 14.7% was observed without indications of treatment plateau, while safety profiles remained within acceptable limits for most participants.

The dual mechanisms of VK2735 exploit the GLP-1 and GIP pathways, both crucial for metabolic improvements. The GLP-1 receptor activation has proven beneficial in lowering glucose levels, curbing appetite, and enhancing insulin sensitivity, significantly aiding those battling type 2 diabetes and obesity. The success of such receptor agonists is mirrored in renowned medications like Semaglutide, which has already garnered FDA approval. Furthermore, emerging research suggests that leveraging GIP alongside GLP-1 may augment treatment effectiveness.

Viking Therapeutics’ focused dedication to innovative R&D in metabolic disorders is also reflected in their other major programs, including VK2809, an oral thyroid hormone receptor beta agonist targeting lipid regulation. Recent studies on VK2809 revealed successful outcomes in decreasing liver fat and cholesterol levels among participants.

As Viking Therapeutics continues its research journey to unlock new therapeutic avenues for metabolic disorders, the promising outcomes of the VANQUISH-2 trial might signal a major leap forward in the realm of obesity and type 2 diabetes treatment. The ongoing studies will ultimately determine the fate of VK2735 as a viable option in the market, addressing the pressing need for effective treatments in a landscape where obesity prevalence continues to soar.

For further information on Viking Therapeutics and their cutting-edge work in metabolic disorder treatment, visit www.vikingtherapeutics.com.