San Diego-based Viking Therapeutics (Nasdaq: VKTX) has initiated a Phase I single ascending dose trial of VK3019, an internally developed dual amylin and calcitonin receptor agonist (DACRA), in healthy adults with a BMI of 30 or above. The move is part of Viking's strategy to build a multi-mechanism obesity portfolio that could eventually pair a DACRA with its lead GLP-1/GIP asset, VK2735, currently in Phase III development — a combination strategy that is gaining attention as the field grapples with the limits of incretin monotherapy.
The trial is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study assessing safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of subcutaneous VK3019, with exploratory assessments of body weight change after a single dose. No enrollment numbers were disclosed.
Competitive context
Viking enters a growing field of amylin-based obesity therapies. Novo Nordisk is developing CagriSema, while several other companies are pursuing amylin-containing combinations intended to extend weight loss beyond what is achievable with GLP-1 therapies alone. Viking's DACRA differs by activating both amylin and calcitonin receptors, an approach the company believes could deliver broader metabolic benefits. The program gives Viking a second obesity mechanism alongside VK2735, potentially allowing the company to compete not only with standalone incretin therapies but also with the next generation of combination regimens that many developers expect will define the market later this decade.
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