Viking Therapeutics Completes Enrollment in Phase 3 VANQUISH-2 Trial for Obesity Drug VK2735

Event summary

  • Viking Therapeutics completed enrollment in the Phase 3 VANQUISH-2 trial for VK2735, a dual GLP-1/GIP agonist for obesity and type 2 diabetes, with approximately 1,000 patients enrolled.
  • The trial is a 78-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluating subcutaneous VK2735 in four dosage arms.
  • Viking expects to complete the VANQUISH studies in 2027, with results from a Phase 1 maintenance dosing study anticipated in Q3 2026.
  • Previous Phase 2 data showed VK2735 achieved up to 14.7% mean body weight reduction with a favorable safety profile.

The big picture

Viking's completion of enrollment in the VANQUISH-2 trial marks a critical step in the obesity drug market, where dual GLP-1/GIP agonists like VK2735 are competing with established players. The rapid enrollment reflects strong interest in next-generation obesity treatments, but Viking must demonstrate superior efficacy and safety to carve out market share. The company's parallel development of oral and subcutaneous formulations could provide flexibility in addressing different patient needs.

What we're watching

Clinical Efficacy
Whether VK2735 can replicate Phase 2 weight reduction results in the Phase 3 trials, positioning it as a competitive alternative to existing GLP-1/GIP agonists.
Regulatory Pathway
The pace at which Viking can secure regulatory approval for VK2735, given the accelerating demand for obesity treatments.
Market Differentiation
How Viking will position VK2735 against established therapies like Mounjaro and Wegovy, particularly if both oral and subcutaneous formulations are approved.

Related topics

Drug Development