Viking Therapeutics' Obesity Drug Shows Promise, Accelerates Enrollment in Key Trial

NEW YORK, NY – November 19, 2025

Viking Therapeutics is making significant strides in the burgeoning obesity treatment market with its novel drug candidate, VK2735. The company recently announced the completion of patient enrollment in its Phase 3 VANQUISH-1 trial, a key milestone achieved ahead of schedule and exceeding target enrollment size. This rapid accrual suggests robust patient interest and positions VK2735 as a potential disruptor in a market dominated by Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly.

A New Approach to Weight Loss

VK2735 is a dual agonist of the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptors. This mechanism of action differs from some existing treatments, which primarily target only GLP-1. GIP, alongside GLP-1, are incretin hormones that play a critical role in regulating appetite, insulin secretion, and glucose metabolism. By activating both receptors, VK2735 aims to offer a more comprehensive approach to weight management. Preliminary data from Phase 2 trials have demonstrated encouraging weight loss results, with some patients experiencing reductions of up to 14.7% in body weight.

“The dual mechanism is attracting significant attention,” explains one industry analyst. “We're seeing a growing understanding of the interplay between GLP-1 and GIP, and drugs that effectively target both receptors could offer improved efficacy and potentially address a broader range of patient needs.”

The VANQUISH-1 trial, enrolling approximately 4,650 patients, is designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of VK2735 in individuals with obesity. The 78-week study compares different doses of the drug against a placebo, with a primary endpoint of percent change in body weight from baseline. The accelerated enrollment points to significant unmet need in the obesity treatment landscape and suggests a strong desire for new, effective therapies.

Challenging the Market Leaders

The obesity treatment market is currently dominated by Wegovy (semaglutide) from Novo Nordisk and Zepbound (tirzepatide) from Eli Lilly. Both drugs have demonstrated impressive weight loss results and have experienced strong demand, leading to supply constraints and access challenges in some regions. VK2735, with its novel dual mechanism and promising clinical data, is poised to challenge these market leaders.

“The competitive landscape is heating up,” notes another analyst. “While Wegovy and Zepbound have established a strong foothold, there’s still plenty of room for innovation and new entrants. Viking Therapeutics is well-positioned to capitalize on this opportunity, particularly if they can demonstrate compelling efficacy and safety data in Phase 3.”

Beyond weight loss, VK2735 also has the potential to address co-morbidities associated with obesity, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. This broader metabolic impact could further enhance its appeal to both patients and healthcare providers. Viking is also developing both a subcutaneous and an oral formulation of VK2735, offering patients greater convenience and flexibility in treatment options.

Financial Health and Future Prospects

Viking Therapeutics appears to be in a strong financial position to support the ongoing development and potential commercialization of VK2735. As of its latest quarterly report, the company held over $715 million in cash and cash equivalents. While R&D expenses have increased significantly as the Phase 3 trial progresses, the company’s robust financial resources provide a cushion for future investment.

“They’ve managed their finances effectively,” notes a financial analyst specializing in biotechnology. “Their cash runway appears sufficient to fund the VANQUISH-1 trial and potentially support early commercialization efforts, assuming positive data.”

The company is also exploring maintenance dosing regimens for VK2735, including monthly subcutaneous injections, daily oral administration, and weekly oral administration. This strategy aims to provide patients with long-term weight management solutions and address the challenges of weight regain that often occur after discontinuing treatment. Results from the maintenance dosing study are expected in mid-2026, providing further insights into the long-term efficacy and safety of VK2735. The company anticipates topline results from the VANQUISH-1 trial in late 2026 or early 2027, which will be a crucial catalyst for the company’s stock and potential market valuation. If successful, VK2735 could significantly alter the landscape of obesity treatment and offer a new hope for millions of individuals struggling with this chronic condition.