Clinical Trials Pipeline & In-Development

VK2735

also known as: VK-2735

Viking's emerging dual GLP-1/GIP agonist — Phase 2 SC data in obesity reported up to ~14.7% placebo-adjusted weight loss at 13 weeks (VENTURE, 2024), with an oral-tablet Phase 2 program initiated 2024; the principal clinical challenger to tirzepatide's mechanism outside the Lilly / Novo axis.

A dual GLP-1 / GIP receptor agonist peptide developed by Viking Therapeutics, evaluated in two formulations: a subcutaneous injectable (VENTURE Phase 2 in obesity, 2024; ~14.7% placebo-adjusted weight loss at 13 weeks) and an oral tablet (VK2735-OB-Ph2 initiated late 2024); the most advanced non-Lilly / non-Novo dual GLP-1/GIP asset.

Mechanism of action

Balanced agonism at GLP-1 and GIP receptors — mechanistically the same class as tirzepatide, but a distinct molecule. GLP-1 agonism provides glucose-dependent insulin secretion, glucagon suppression, delayed gastric emptying, and central appetite suppression; GIP agonism adds an independent insulinotropic component and appears to modulate lipid handling and nausea tolerability.

Primary uses

Obesity (Phase 2)
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (Phase 2)

Typical dosing

2.5–15 mg once weekly (SC) (subcutaneous or oral)

VENTURE SC explored 2.5, 5, 10, and 15 mg weekly cohorts. Oral dosing disclosed separately.

Regulatory status

Not approved. Phase 2 VENTURE (SC) reported February 2024; Phase 2 oral tablet study initiated late 2024. Phase 3 planning disclosed in 2024–2025 corporate updates.

References

[manufacturer] Viking Therapeutics. Press release: VENTURE Phase 2 positive topline results in obesity, February 2024.
[clinicaltrials] ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05930249 (VENTURE, VK2735 SC Phase 2).
[manufacturer] Viking Therapeutics corporate update: oral VK2735 Phase 2 initiation, Q4 2024.

Related peptides

Tirzepatide

A once-weekly GLP-1/GIP dual agonist that produced unprecedented weight loss in SURMOUNT trials — up to ~21% at highest dose.

Semaglutide

A once-weekly GLP-1 receptor agonist FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management.

Retatrutide

An investigational triple hormone agonist that produced ~24% weight loss at 48 weeks in Phase 2 — the largest in any single-agent obesity trial to date.

Maridebart cafraglutide

Amgen's once-monthly obesity injection — Phase 3 MARITIME program underway, ~20% weight loss at 52 weeks in Phase 2 (NEJM 2025), approximately 21-day half-life enabling monthly or less frequent dosing.

Disclaimer

This entry is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Dosing information reflects published regulatory or research data and is not a recommendation. Many compounds described here are not approved for human use in the United States. Consult a licensed medical professional before considering any peptide therapy.