Viking Therapeutics Announces Publication of Results from Phase 2 VENTURE Trial of Dual GLP-1/GIP Receptor Agonist VK2735 in the Journal Obesity

Rhea-AI Summary

Viking Therapeutics (NASDAQ: VKTX) announced publication in Obesity of Phase 2 VENTURE results for weekly subcutaneous VK2735, a dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist. The 13-week trial met its primary and secondary endpoints, showing mean body-weight reductions up to 14.7% from baseline with no plateau and a safety profile in which most adverse events were reported as mild or moderate. Viking is advancing VK2735 in the registrational VANQUISH Phase 3 program (78-week dosing); VANQUISH-1 has ~4,650 participants enrolled and VANQUISH-2 is enrolling ~1,100. An exploratory maintenance study (≈180 subjects) also completed enrollment.

Positive

• Mean weight loss up to 14.7% at 13 weeks
• Phase 2 VENTURE met primary and secondary endpoints
• Majority of adverse events were mild or moderate
• VANQUISH-1 enrollment ~4,650; VANQUISH-2 enrolling ~1,100

Negative

• Durability and safety beyond 13 weeks not reported in Phase 2
• Phase 3 VANQUISH outcomes remain pending and will determine registrational success

News Market Reaction – VKTX

-0.72%

13 alerts

-0.72% News Effect

-$24M Valuation Impact

$3.38B Market Cap

0.6x Rel. Volume

On the day this news was published, VKTX declined 0.72%, reflecting a mild negative market reaction. Our momentum scanner triggered 13 alerts that day, indicating notable trading interest and price volatility. This price movement removed approximately $24M from the company's valuation, bringing the market cap to $3.38B at that time.

Data tracked by StockTitan Argus on the day of publication.

Key Figures

Max weight loss: 14.7% from baseline Treatment duration: 13 weeks VANQUISH-1 enrollment: Approximately 4,650 adults +5 more

8 metrics

Max weight loss 14.7% from baseline After 13 weeks of weekly subcutaneous VK2735 in Phase 2 VENTURE

Treatment duration 13 weeks Weekly subcutaneous VK2735 dosing in Phase 2 VENTURE trial

VANQUISH-1 enrollment Approximately 4,650 adults Phase 3 obesity trial with BMI ≥30 or ≥27 plus comorbidity

VANQUISH-2 enrollment Approximately 1,100 adults Phase 3 trial in adults with type 2 diabetes who have obesity or overweight

Dosing duration 78 weeks Weekly subcutaneous VK2735 dosing period in VANQUISH-1 and VANQUISH-2

Dose arms 7.5 mg, 12.5 mg, 17.5 mg Weekly VK2735 doses versus placebo in both Phase 3 VANQUISH trials

Maintenance study size Approximately 180 adults Phase 1 exploratory maintenance dosing study, BMI ≥30 kg/m2

Study discontinuations Well-balanced vs placebo Treatment and study discontinuation rates in VENTURE VK2735 cohorts

Market Reality Check

Price: $31.03 Vol: Volume 2,843,822 vs 20-da...

normal vol

$31.03 Last Close

Volume Volume 2,843,822 vs 20-day average 2,650,488 (relative volume 1.07x). normal

Technical Price 31.99 is trading above 200-day MA at 30.54 and 25.86% below the 52-week high 43.15.

Peers on Argus

VKTX gained 1.07% with mixed peer action: SRRK +1.05%, XENE +1.44% versus IMVT -...

VKTX gained 1.07% with mixed peer action: SRRK +1.05%, XENE +1.44% versus IMVT -2.4%, CRNX -0.5%, SLNO -6.17%, suggesting stock-specific drivers around VK2735 data.

Common Catalyst Select peers (SLNO, SRRK) also issued company updates, but headlines focus on different topics than VKTX’s VK2735 obesity data publication.

Historical Context

5 past events · Latest: Jan 08 (Positive)

Pattern 5 events

Date	Event	Sentiment	Move	Catalyst
Jan 08	Clinical trial update	Positive	-2.3%	Completion of enrollment in Phase 1 VK2735 maintenance dosing obesity study.
Jan 07	Management change	Positive	+0.3%	Appointment of chief commercial officer to lead VK2735 commercialization strategy.
Jan 05	Conference appearance	Positive	+0.5%	Announcement of CEO presentation at J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference.
Nov 19	Phase 3 enrollment	Positive	-4.6%	Completion of Phase 3 VANQUISH-1 enrollment ahead of schedule above target.
Nov 06	Clinical data update	Positive	+2.2%	ObesityWeek 2025 VENTURE data showing weight loss and cardiometabolic improvements.

Pattern Detected

Clinical-trial and corporate updates for VK2735 have produced mixed reactions, with both positive and negative moves following generally constructive news.

Recent Company History

Over recent months, Viking has repeatedly advanced obesity candidate VK2735. Prior news included initiation and completion of a Phase 1 maintenance dosing trial (~180 adults, 19-week induction plus maintenance), completion of enrollment in Phase 3 VANQUISH-1 (~4,650 adults, 78-week dosing), and presentations of Phase 2 VENTURE data showing up to 14.7% weight loss and cardiometabolic benefits. Management also strengthened commercialization leadership. Today’s publication reinforces earlier VENTURE results already referenced in those updates.

Market Pulse Summary

This announcement formalizes Phase 2 VENTURE results for VK2735, highlighting up to 14.7% weight los...

Analysis

This announcement formalizes Phase 2 VENTURE results for VK2735, highlighting up to 14.7% weight loss after 13 weeks with generally mild-to-moderate adverse events and balanced discontinuation rates versus placebo. It reinforces the rationale for the ongoing Phase 3 VANQUISH-1 and VANQUISH-2 trials, which include thousands of adults with obesity or overweight and type 2 diabetes. Investors may watch for Phase 3 readouts and additional safety and durability data as key future catalysts.

Key Terms

glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, adverse events (AEs), +1 more

5 terms

glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) medical

"a dual agonist of the glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent"

A naturally occurring hormone that signals the body to release insulin, slow stomach emptying, and reduce appetite, acting like a thermostat that helps control blood sugar and hunger. It matters to investors because medicines that mimic or boost this hormone are a major and growing class of treatments for diabetes and obesity, driving drug sales, regulatory decisions, and company valuations in the health sector.

glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) medical

"glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptors."

Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) is a hormone released by the gut after eating that tells the pancreas to release insulin only when blood sugar is high, and it also influences appetite and fat storage. Investors watch GIP because drugs that mimic or block its action are a major focus for diabetes and obesity treatments; successful clinical results or regulatory setbacks can materially affect a drugmaker’s prospects and market value.

randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled medical

"These trials are randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter trials designed"

A "randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled" process is a method used to test the effectiveness of a new treatment or intervention. Participants are randomly assigned to different groups, with one receiving the real treatment and the other a fake version, called a placebo. Neither the participants nor the researchers know who is receiving which, which helps ensure unbiased results. For investors, this rigorous approach increases confidence that the findings are accurate and not influenced by guesswork or bias.

adverse events (AEs) medical

"with the majority of observed adverse events (AEs) being reported as mild or moderate."

Adverse events (AEs) are any unwanted medical problems or side effects that occur in people taking a drug, vaccine, or undergoing a medical procedure, whether or not the treatment caused them. Think of AEs like warning lights on a dashboard: a few minor blips may be manageable, but frequent or serious lights can signal bigger problems that affect patient safety, regulatory approvals, and a product’s commercial prospects — all key concerns for investors.

body mass index (BMI) medical

"enrolled approximately 4,650 adults with obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m2) or who are overweight"

Body mass index (BMI) is a simple number calculated from a person’s weight and height that gives a rough indication of whether their body size falls into categories such as underweight, normal, overweight, or obese. For investors, BMI matters because it’s a common screening measure used in public health, insurance underwriting, clinical trials and market research; shifts in population BMI can affect demand for medical services, drugs, insurance costs and related business risks, like a quick fuel-gauge that signals broader health trends.

AI-generated analysis. Not financial advice.

Publication Highlights Impressive Weight Loss of Up to 14.7% from Baseline After 13 Weeks of Treatment; No Plateau Observed

VK2735 Currently Being Evaluated in VANQUISH Phase 3 Registrational Program in Obesity

SAN DIEGO, Jan. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Viking Therapeutics, Inc. (Viking) (NASDAQ: VKTX), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of novel therapies for metabolic and endocrine disorders, today announced the publication of the results of the company's Phase 2 VENTURE clinical trial of VK2735, a dual agonist of the glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptors. VK2375 is being developed in both oral and subcutaneous formulations for the potential treatment of various metabolic disorders such as obesity. 

The paper, titled, "Weekly Subcutaneous VK2735, a GIP/GLP-1 Receptor Dual Agonist, for Weight Management: Phase 2, Randomized, 13-Week VENTURE Study," was published in Obesity, the peer-reviewed journal of The Obesity Society. It can be accessed online at: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/oby.70106.

The publication highlights the previously reported positive results from the Phase 2 VENTURE study of VK2735 in patients with obesity, which showed that the trial successfully achieved its primary and secondary endpoints. After 13 weekly subcutaneous doses, participants receiving VK2735 demonstrated statistically significant reductions in mean body weight from baseline, ranging up to 14.7% with no signs of plateau. VK2735 also demonstrated encouraging safety and tolerability in the VENTURE study, with the majority of observed adverse events (AEs) being reported as mild or moderate. Treatment and study discontinuation rates among VK2735 cohorts were well-balanced compared with placebo.

"We are happy to have the VENTURE Trial results published in the peer-reviewed journal of The Obesity Society, providing important visibility for these data across the medical community. The study data served to highlight the promise that VK2735 holds as a potentially best-in-class dual GLP-1/GIP agonist and were central to our designing of the ongoing VANQUISH Phase 3 program for VK2735," said Brian Lian Ph.D., chief executive officer of Viking. "The response among patients and clinicians for the VANQUISH studies has been positive, with VANQUISH-1 over-enrolled ahead of schedule and VANQUISH-2 expected to complete enrollment in the first quarter of 2026."

Viking is currently conducting two Phase 3 studies evaluating subcutaneous VK2735 (VANQUISH-1 and VANQUISH-2). These trials are randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter trials designed to assess the efficacy and safety of subcutaneous VK2735 dosed weekly for 78 weeks. The VANQUISH-1 study has completed enrollment of approximately 4,650 adults with obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m²) or who are overweight (BMI ≥27 kg/m²) with at least one weight-related co-morbid condition. The VANQUISH-2 study is enrolling approximately 1,100 adults with type 2 diabetes who have obesity or are overweight. Patients in both trials are being randomized to one of four weekly treatment arms: VK2735 7.5 mg; VK2735 12.5 mg; VK2735 17.5 mg; and placebo.

Additionally, the company recently announced the completion of enrollment in an exploratory maintenance dosing study of VK2735. The Phase 1, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial is designed to evaluate various dosing regimens, following initial weight loss achieved with weekly VK2735 treatment. The trial enrolled approximately 180 adults with BMI ≥30 kg/m² but who are otherwise healthy. 

About GLP-1 and Dual GLP-1/GIP Agonists

Activation of the glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor has been shown to decrease glucose, reduce appetite, lower body weight, and improve insulin sensitivity in patients with type 2 diabetes, obesity, or both. Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is currently marketed in various dosage strengths and forms as Ozempic^®, Rybelsus^®, and Wegovy^®. More recently, research efforts have explored the potential co-activation of the glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) receptor as a means of enhancing the therapeutic benefits of GLP-1 receptor activation. Tirzepatide is a dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist that has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is currently marketed in various dosage strengths and forms as Mounjaro^® and Zepbound^®.

About Viking Therapeutics, Inc.

Viking Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of novel first-in-class or best-in-class therapies for the treatment of metabolic and endocrine disorders. Viking's research and development activities leverage its expertise in metabolism to develop innovative therapeutics designed to improve patients' lives. Viking's clinical programs include VK2735, a novel dual agonist of the glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptors for the potential treatment of various metabolic disorders. The company is evaluating its subcutaneous formulation of VK2735 in a Phase 3 obesity program that includes two Phase 3 clinical trials (VANQUISH-1 and VANQUISH-2). Data from a Phase 1 and a Phase 2 trial evaluating subcutaneous VK2735 demonstrated an encouraging safety and tolerability profile as well as positive signs of clinical benefit. Concurrently, the company is evaluating an oral formulation of VK2735 in obesity. Viking is also developing VK2809, a novel, orally available, small molecule selective thyroid hormone receptor beta agonist for the treatment of lipid and metabolic disorders. The compound successfully achieved both the primary and secondary endpoints in a Phase 2b study for the treatment of biopsy-confirmed non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and fibrosis. In a Phase 2a trial for the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and elevated LDL-C, patients who received VK2809 demonstrated statistically significant reductions in LDL-C and liver fat content compared with patients who received placebo. The company's newest program is evaluating a series of internally developed dual amylin and calcitonin receptor agonists (or DACRAs) for the treatment of obesity and other metabolic disorders. In the rare disease space, Viking is developing VK0214, a novel, orally available, small molecule selective thyroid hormone receptor beta agonist for the potential treatment of X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD). In a Phase 1b clinical trial in patients with the adrenomyeloneuropathy (AMN) form of X-ALD, VK0214 was shown to be safe and well-tolerated, while driving significant reductions in plasma levels of very long-chain fatty acids (VLCFAs) and other lipids, as compared to placebo.

For more information about Viking Therapeutics, please visit www.vikingtherapeutics.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements regarding Viking Therapeutics, Inc., under the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements about Viking's expectations regarding its clinical and preclinical development programs, anticipated timing for reporting clinical data and cash resources. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially and adversely and reported results should not be considered as an indication of future performance. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: risks associated with the success, cost and timing of Viking's product candidate development activities and clinical trials, including those for VK2735, VK0214, VK2809, and the company's other incretin receptor agonists; risks that prior clinical and preclinical results may not be replicated; risks regarding regulatory requirements; and other risks that are described in Viking's most recent periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including Viking's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, including the risk factors set forth in those filings. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof.  Viking disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements except as required by law.

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SOURCE Viking Therapeutics, Inc.

FAQ

What were the Phase 2 VENTURE results for VK2735 (VKTX) published on January 12, 2026?

The published VENTURE study showed mean body-weight reductions up to 14.7% at 13 weeks and met its primary and secondary endpoints.

What safety findings were reported for VK2735 in the VENTURE study (VKTX)?

VK2735 demonstrated encouraging safety and tolerability, with the majority of observed adverse events reported as mild or moderate.

What is the status of the VANQUISH Phase 3 program for VK2735 (VKTX) as of January 12, 2026?

VANQUISH-1 has completed enrollment of approximately 4,650 adults; VANQUISH-2 is enrolling about 1,100 adults with type 2 diabetes; both are 78-week randomized, placebo-controlled studies.

What doses of VK2735 are being tested in the VANQUISH Phase 3 trials (VKTX)?

Patients are randomized to weekly VK2735 7.5 mg, 12.5 mg, 17.5 mg, or placebo.

Was there a weight-loss plateau observed with VK2735 in the VENTURE trial (VKTX)?

No plateau was observed during the 13-week VENTURE study; mean weight reductions continued through week 13.

What additional VK2735 studies has Viking completed enrollment for (VKTX)?

Viking completed enrollment in an exploratory maintenance dosing Phase 1 study that enrolled approximately 180 adults.