Viking Therapeutics (NASDAQ:VKTX) shares climbed 11.63% after the company revealed plans to push its experimental oral obesity treatment, VK2735, into late-stage clinical testing in the third quarter of this year. The announcement followed the release of late-stage study data indicating once-daily doses of the oral tablet form of VK2735 yielded up to 12.2% average body weight reduction after 13 weeks.
The company emphasized the product's dual-format strategy as a competitive differentiator, noting that "no other dual or triple agonist is currently available in both formulations." Viking is positioning the program to leverage both an oral tablet and injectable options as part of its clinical and commercial approach.
Market reaction included positive commentary from industry analysts. Raymond James highlighted the potential opportunity for an oral VK2735 program, stating: "In our view, the sizable opportunity for the oral VK2735 program is highlighted by the recently announced, impressive early launch metrics (~50k scripts in the first three weeks) for Novo’s oral Wegovy, which reached the U.S. market in early January." The Raymond James note underscores how early adoption metrics for competing oral agents could point to demand that benefits Viking’s program.
Leerink also signaled support for the company’s trajectory, writing: "Overall, we remain encouraged by VKTX’s clinical execution and continue to see both fundamental and strategic value for the company’s potentially best-in-class portfolio of obesity and metabolic disease programs. We expect VKTX’s maintenance trial will provide optionality to leverage both ’2735 formulations to drive robust initial weight loss (i.e., subcutaneous induction) followed by a convenient, well-tolerated maintenance regimen (i.e., lower and/or less-frequently dosed subcutaneous or oral)." That view highlights a strategic plan where an injectable induction could be followed by an oral maintenance therapy.
Truist drew attention to recent program milestones and timing in a client note: "4Q25 update was notable for successful EOP2 mtg with plans to start Ph3 study of oral VK2735 in 3Q26. Given successful launch of Wegovy pill, which represents one of, if not the best drug launch in history, we think oppty of oral VK2735 is woefully underappreciated." Truist’s commentary links regulatory and program progress to perceived commercial opportunity for an oral formulation.
Collectively, the company data and analyst remarks framed the rally in VKTX shares, as investors reacted to clinical efficacy signals and the potential market advantages of offering both oral and injectable treatment options for obesity.
Sector and market context - The development touches the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors, with potential implications for healthcare stocks tied to obesity and metabolic disease treatments. Positive trial data and diversified formulation strategy can influence investors tracking clinical progression and commercialization prospects within these industries.