Viking Therapeutics Starts VK2735 Oral Maintenance Trial

Viking Therapeutics has initiated Part 2 of an exploratory clinical trial for its dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist VK2735, evaluating oral tablet and subcutaneous maintenance regimens following initial weight loss, according to an Investing.com report.

"Our recent top-line results from Part 1 of this study demonstrated the potency and differentiated profile of VK2735 in the setting of both weight loss induction and potentially longer-term maintenance. We are eager to continue this study with the initiation of Part 2, which will explore multiple regimens, both oral and subcutaneous, with the potential to provide greater optionality and flexibility to best align with a patient's individual weight loss journey," said Brian Lian, Ph.D., chief executive officer of Viking.

Trial Design and Participant Enrollment

The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study is designed to enroll approximately 195 adults with obesity, defined as having a body mass index of 30 kilograms per square meter or greater. During the initial phase, participants receive weekly subcutaneous doses of VK2735 or a placebo for 21 weeks to induce weight loss.

Following this initial period, patients transition into maintenance regimens. These options include:

• Daily oral doses of VK2735
• Weekly oral doses of VK2735
• Monthly subcutaneous doses
• Every-other-week subcutaneous doses
• Placebo comparators

Mechanism of Action and Dual Agonism

VK2735 belongs to a class of therapeutics that simultaneously target two distinct incretin hormone receptors: the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor and the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor. Dual agonism aims to enhance metabolic control and appetite regulation beyond single-target therapies, addressing both glycemic parameters and fat reduction.

What Is at Stake in the Obesity Drug Market

Developing flexible maintenance dosing schedules addresses a key clinical challenge in obesity care: weight regain after initial cessation or reduction of intensive pharmacotherapy. By testing both oral tablets and less frequent subcutaneous injections, Viking aims to establish alternative maintenance pathways that could improve long-term patient adherence compared to continuous high-frequency dosing.

Top-line results from Part 2 of the maintenance study are anticipated in 2027, according to company disclosures. Meanwhile, shares of Viking Therapeutics Inc (NASDAQ: VKTX) traded at $28.51, rising 2.81% as of October 9, 2026, according to market data.