Viking Therapeutics Initiates Pivotal Phase 3 Trial: Here's Why Investors Have Reason for Optimism After a Disappointing Phase 2

Viking Therapeutics (VKTX) raised $575M via stock offering and convertible notes. Funds will support phase 3 trials for obesity and diabetes drug VK2735, with results expected in 2027-2028. The company aims to extend cash runway beyond 2028, focusing on pipeline development.

Viking Therapeutics (VKTX) shares fell 7.4% due to financing overhang from recent stock and convertible note offerings, raising dilution concerns. Investors also show caution amid competition in the obesity-drug market, despite the company advancing its VK2735 program into Phase 3. Insider sales and mixed hedge fund activity were noted.

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) began Phase 3 trials for its oral obesity drug VK2735, targeting metabolic disorders. The SUNRISE program includes two studies with 560 participants each, focusing on weight loss and secondary health metrics. The company reported promising Phase 2 results, with significant weight reduction in patients. Viking is also conducting Phase 3 trials for a subcutaneous version of VK2735.