Viking Therapeutics reports positive topline results from a study of the obesity drug candidate VK2735, a combined GLP-1 and GIP agonist. This is stated in a press release.
After 33 weeks of treatment with a weekly dose of 17.5 milligrams, the placebo-adjusted weight loss amounted to 22 percent, with no signs that the effect had plateaued.
The study also evaluated less frequent maintenance treatment. After switching to dosing every other week, up to 97 percent of the weight loss was maintained after three months, while monthly dosing maintained up to 90 percent.
Viking states that gastrointestinal side effects during the maintenance period were at a level comparable with placebo. The company also plans to evaluate maintenance treatment with an oral version of VK2735.
The stock is surging 38 percent in U.S. premarket trading.
