Viking’s Obesity Pill VK2735 Hits Endpoints but Trails Novo Nordisk and Lilly Rivals

Viking Therapeutics’ experimental obesity pill VK2735 has achieved its primary endpoints in the Phase II VENTURE-Oral Dosing trial (NCT06068946) but failed to surpass market leaders Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly in efficacy. The dual GLP-1/GIP agonist induced up to 12.2% weight loss at the highest 120mg dose, but this fell short of Nordisk’s oral Wegovy (13.6%) and Lilly’s orforglipron.

Investor sentiment soured following the readout, with Viking’s stock plunging 42% after the announcement. Safety also raised concerns, as 38% of patients in the 120mg arm discontinued due to gastrointestinal adverse events. Viking’s CEO Brian Lian noted most side effects resolved quickly with continued dosing and highlighted the “progressive” weight loss trend, suggesting potential for stronger results in longer trials.

Viking now plans to explore VK2735 as a maintenance therapy, while Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly remain firmly ahead in the oral obesity drug race.

25-08-2025