In recent developments that could mark a significant leap in obesity treatment options, Viking Therapeutics has presented data at Obesity Week 2024 from two clinical trials of their GLP-1/GIP co-agonist, VK2735. Both a traditional injectable form and an innovative oral formulation were tested, showing promising weight-loss results and solid tolerability profiles. Here at On The Pen, we’ve been playfully calling it “Vikingtide” for its potential to make waves in the obesity treatment world. Here’s a closer look at what these findings mean for the future of obesity management and the potential impact on those navigating their weight-loss journeys.
The Science Behind VK2735: A New Approach to GLP-1/GIP Therapy
Before diving into the results, it’s worth taking a moment to understand the science behind VK2735. This dual-acting GLP-1/GIP co-agonist is designed to target two critical receptors involved in appetite regulation, insulin sensitivity, and metabolic health. GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (gastric inhibitory polypeptide) are hormones that play key roles in regulating hunger and metabolism. By activating both, VK2735 aims to reduce appetite, improve satiety, and potentially offer more sustained weight management compared to single-agonist therapies.
What makes VK2735 even more exciting is the option for an oral formulation, moving away from the injectables that have dominated the GLP-1 therapeutic landscape. For many, the thought of a daily pill instead of a needle could be a game-changer, both in terms of convenience and adherence. Additionally, oral formulations come with a unique advantage—they don’t require cold-chain storage. This makes them easier to transport, store, and distribute on a large scale, which could significantly improve accessibility and affordability for patients worldwide.
Trial 1: 13-Week Injectable VK2735 Study – Significant Weight Loss Observed
The first of Viking’s recent trials focused on an injectable form of VK2735 over a 13-week period. Here’s a breakdown of the study’s key points and outcomes:
• Study Design: This Phase 2a trial was randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled, enrolling 125 participants with all patients required to have BMI greater than 30, or greater than 27 plus one additional weight-related comorbidity. Participants were given weekly subcutaneous injections of VK2735 or a placebo, with doses escalated to determine the most effective and tolerable levels.
• Results: By the end of the 13 weeks, participants on VK2735 experienced an impressive mean weight loss of up to 14.7% or 13.1% when compared to placebo at the highest dose. Even more striking, 88% of participants achieved at least a 10% reduction in body weight—a significant milestone in obesity treatment. Additionally, some participants continued to lose weight through week 16, indicating a sustained effect.
• Safety and Tolerability: As with other GLP-1 therapies, gastrointestinal (GI) side effects like nausea were the most common adverse events. However, these were generally mild or moderate, with no major safety issues reported. This aligns with what we’ve seen in similar medications, where GI symptoms are an expected, manageable part of the process.
• Conclusion: The injectable VK2735 showed solid efficacy in weight reduction, with a manageable side effect profile. For those who respond well to injectables, this version of VK2735 could offer an effective and safe option for long-term weight management.
Trial 2: Oral VK2735 – A Potential Game-Changer in Obesity Treatment
Perhaps even more exciting is Viking’s exploration of an oral version of VK2735. This “first-in-human” study tested the feasibility of taking VK2735 in pill form, offering a non-injectable alternative for those who may be hesitant about needles or seeking a more convenient option.
• Study Design: This was a Phase 1, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with 92 healthy adults, designed to test safety, tolerability, and weight-loss efficacy. The participants took daily doses of VK2735 in varying amounts over 28 days, allowing researchers to gauge the appropriate dosing and potential efficacy of the oral formulation.
• Results: After just 28 days, the results were promising. 100mg, the highest doses of VK2735 led to notable body weight reductions averaging 8.2%. Participants reported significant appetite suppression and increased feelings of fullness, key elements in sustained weight management.
• Safety and GI Tolerability: Similar to the injectable form, mild GI side effects were the most common, including nausea and GI discomfort. These effects were dose-dependent and generally manageable, indicating that the oral version could be well-tolerated with the right dosing approach.
• Conclusion: The oral formulation of VK2735 showed clear potential as an effective obesity treatment, providing weight-loss results similar to those seen in injectables. If future trials confirm these findings, VK2735 could become a trailblazer, bringing the benefits of GLP-1/GIP therapy to a wider audience through a pill rather than an injection.
Why Oral Formulations Matter: Scalability and Accessibility
An oral version of VK2735 isn’t just about convenience. The transition from an injectable to a pill could be transformative in terms of scalability and accessibility. Oral formulations eliminate the need for cold-chain storage, which is required for most injectables to maintain stability. Without this logistical constraint, VK2735 could be transported and stored more easily, reducing costs and expanding its reach. For patients in remote areas or countries with limited healthcare infrastructure, an oral formulation could make GLP-1/GIP therapies far more attainable. At On The Pen, we see “Vikingtide” as more than just a catchy name—it represents the potential for meaningful, scalable change in obesity treatment. Of course, if the price is right…
What This Means for Patients and the Future of Obesity Treatment
The takeaway from these trials is that VK2735 has shown itself to be a powerful tool in the battle against obesity, both in injectable and oral forms. For patients, the implications are twofold:
1. More Options: For those comfortable with injectables, VK2735’s 13-week results are promising. But the potential of an oral formulation could bring GLP-1/GIP therapy to a new level, making it easier for more people to access and adhere to treatment.
2. Future Accessibility and Scalability: The oral form of VK2735 could help address adherence issues associated with injections and eliminate the cold-chain requirements that complicate distribution. This would open doors for wider accessibility, especially in regions where injectable medications are less feasible. If Phase 2 trials build on these initial findings, we might see VK2735 become a frontrunner for obesity management, expanding options for those struggling with weight and metabolic issues.
While VK2735 still has several phases of testing ahead, these early results are encouraging. Both the injectable and oral formulations show promise for significant weight reduction with manageable side effects, and Viking Therapeutics’ move toward an oral option could represent a breakthrough in the GLP-1/GIP landscape.
The future of obesity treatment is shifting toward more versatile, patient-friendly solutions, and Vikingtide may very well be at the forefront of that change. Stay tuned to On The Pen for more updates on Viking Therapeutics’ progress, as we continue to cover the latest advancements in weight management and diabetes treatments. Together, we’re building a community that’s informed, empowered, and ready to take on the challenges of obesity and metabolic health.
Any idea what technique they are using to make the oral peptide absorbable?
This is awesome. An effective weight loss pill would seem to have great potential for driving down the cost of these medications for patients. What a blessing that would be!!