VK2735 advances across injectable and oral formats as company strengthens position in weight-loss therapeutics
Viking Therapeutics (VKTX) reported strong first-quarter progress in 2026, highlighted by significant advancements in its obesity treatment pipeline and a solid financial position. The company ended the quarter with $603 million in cash, supporting its ambitious clinical development plans as it pushes forward in one of the most competitive areas in healthcare.
At the center of Viking’s strategy is VK2735, a dual agonist targeting GLP-1 and GIP receptors, designed to treat obesity and related metabolic disorders. The company announced that its Phase 3 VANQUISH program for the subcutaneous version of VK2735 is now fully enrolled. VANQUISH-1, which includes more than 4,500 participants, and VANQUISH-2, with approximately 1,000 participants, are both progressing on schedule. These randomized, placebo-controlled trials will evaluate weight loss outcomes over 78 weeks, with the primary goal of measuring percentage reductions in body weight.
The enthusiasm surrounding VK2735 stems from earlier Phase 2 results, which demonstrated weight reductions of up to 14.7% after 13 weeks, along with favorable safety and tolerability. These results position VK2735 as a strong contender in the rapidly expanding obesity drug market.
In addition to the injectable format, Viking is advancing an oral version of VK2735, with a Phase 3 trial expected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026. If successful, this would mark the first oral dual GLP-1/GIP agonist, offering patients a more convenient alternative to injections. Previous studies of the oral formulation showed weight loss of up to 12.2% over 13 weeks, with strong safety outcomes.
Beyond VK2735, Viking continues to expand its pipeline, including the development of VK3019, a novel amylin agonist. The company has filed an investigational new drug application and expects to begin Phase 1 trials in the second quarter of 2026.
With strong clinical momentum, a diversified pipeline, and solid financial backing, Viking Therapeutics is positioning itself as a key player in the future of obesity treatment.
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