Viking Therapeutics launches phase 3 trials for oral obesity drug

Viking Therapeutics (VKTX) began Phase 3 trials for its obesity drug VK2735, testing oral formulations in two 68-week studies with 560 adults each. The trials aim to assess efficacy and safety, with primary endpoints measuring weight change. VK2735 previously showed promising results in a Phase 2 study. The company reported $502M in cash reserves as of June 30, 2026, with its stock trading between $25.77 and $43.15 over the past year.

Viking Therapeutics (VKTX) has begun Phase 3 trials for its obesity pill, VK2735, competing with Eli Lilly (LLY) and Novo Nordisk (NVO). The company aims to offer both oral and injectable treatments, but regulatory approval depends on trial success. VKTX shares are down 24% this year, underperforming LLY but outperforming NVO. Retail sentiment on Stocktwits is bearish.

Viking Therapeutics (VKTX) has started Phase 3 trials for its oral obesity drug VK2735, targeting adults with and without type 2 diabetes. The SUNRISE-1 and SUNRISE-2 studies will evaluate the drug's efficacy and safety over 68 weeks, with primary endpoints measuring body weight change. Viking aims to expand treatment options for obesity with this once-daily oral therapy, complementing its subcutaneous formulation in Phase 3 trials.

Viking Therapeutics (VKTX) has started Phase 3 trials for its oral obesity drug, VK2735. The SUNRISE program includes two studies: one for obese adults without diabetes and another for those with type 2 diabetes. Each trial will enroll 560 adults, testing four dose levels. The primary goal is to measure weight change after 68 weeks. Viking aims to expand treatment options for obesity with this once-daily oral therapy.

Truist analyst Gregory Renza reduced Viking Therapeutics' price target to $85 from $87, maintaining a Buy rating. The firm expects biotech sector strength but cautions about valuation, macroeconomic factors, and policy risks. Truist prefers companies with clear revenue growth and differentiated profiles.

Viking Therapeutics (VKTX) started a Phase 2 trial for oral VK2735 to maintain weight loss in obesity. The study will test different dosing regimens and enroll 195 adults. VK2735 is a dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist. VKTX shares closed at $29.28, up 0.51% premarket.