Viking Therapeutics Completes Enrollment in Phase 3 Trial for Obesity Treatment VK2735

Viking Therapeutics Completes Enrollment in Phase 3 VANQUISH-1 Trial

Viking Therapeutics, Inc., a prominent clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, has recently announced a significant milestone in its efforts to combat obesity through innovative therapies. On November 19, 2025, the company stated that it has successfully completed patient enrollment in its Phase 3 VANQUISH-1 clinical trial for VK2735, a dual agonist targeting the glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptors.

Overview of VK2735

VK2735 is a promising candidate aimed at treating metabolic disorders, particularly obesity. The Phase 3 VANQUISH-1 study is structured as a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter trial. It is designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of VK2735 administered subcutaneously on a weekly basis over a period of 78 weeks. Recent findings indicate strong interest in VK2735, as evidenced by the accelerated enrollment that surpassed initial expectations.

Approximately 4,650 adults with obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m²) or those who are overweight (BMI ≥27 kg/m²) and experience at least one co-morbid condition were recruited for this study. The participants have been organized into four groups, receiving different dosages of VK2735 (7.5 mg, 12.5 mg, 17.5 mg) alongside a placebo. This diverse treatment approach aims to determine the most effective dosage for weight management.

Study Objectives and Outcomes

The primary objective of the study is to assess the percentage change in weight from the baseline level of participants receiving VK2735 compared to those receiving a placebo after the full treatment period. Secondary outcomes focus on the proportion of individuals achieving significant weight loss benchmarks (≥5%, ≥10%, ≥15%, and ≥20% body weight reduction). Moreover, the protocol includes a 52-week extension period, allowing participants who complete the primary dosing phase to continue treatment.

Brian Lian, Ph.D., CEO of Viking, expressed excitement over the rapid enrollment achievement noting, “The swift recruitment for VANQUISH-1 reflects the strong enthusiasm in the medical community for new obesity treatment options.” Furthermore, the company indicated plans to complete enrollment for its complementary Phase 3 VANQUISH-2 trial in patients with type 2 diabetes by the first quarter of 2026.

Previous Study Insights

Prior to this, Viking Therapeutics announced encouraging results from the Phase 2 VENTURE study, in which VK2735 demonstrated statistically substantial weight reductions in participants compared to placebo. After a series of 13 weekly dosages, participants showed mean weight loss figures as high as 14.7%, and the treatment was generally well-tolerated with adverse events mostly classified as mild to moderate.

The dual agonist approach of VK2735 is particularly noteworthy. The GLP-1 receptor activation has been linked to lower appetite, reduced glucose levels, and enhanced insulin sensitivity, indicating its feasibility in treating obesity and related conditions. Moreover, the exploration of concurrent GIP receptor activation could provide even more clinical benefits, a concept that is gaining traction in obesity therapeutics.

Future Directions for Viking Therapeutics

Beyond VK2735, Viking Therapeutics is also developing additional therapeutic candidates, including VK2809, which targets lipid and metabolic disorders, showing potential in treating non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and fibrosis. As the company advances its portfolio of metabolic disorder treatments, it remains keenly focused on improving patient outcomes through innovative solutions.

In conclusion, Viking Therapeutics' completion of enrollment for the VANQUISH-1 trial marks an important step forward in the fight against obesity. With promising data from earlier studies and a comprehensive approach to patient care, the future looks bright for those struggling with weight-related health challenges. These developments not only highlight the commitment of Viking to advance healthcare sciences but also signify a potential shift in treatment paradigms for obesity management.