The Motley Foolยท2025-04-30 07:15Industry Overview - The weight loss treatment market is projected to grow significantly, with analysts forecasting a compound annual growth rate in the double digits, reaching between $100 billion to $130 billion by the early 2030s [1] Key Players - Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk currently dominate the weight loss treatment market with their products: Lilly's tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) and Novo Nordisk's semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy), generating billions in annual revenue [2] Competitive Landscape - Pfizer and Viking Therapeutics are emerging as potential competitors in the weight loss market. Pfizer recently faced setbacks with its weight loss candidate danuglipron, which was discontinued due to safety concerns, while Viking's VK2735 is progressing well in clinical trials [3][5] Pfizer's Setbacks - Pfizer announced it would not continue the development of danuglipron after a patient experienced liver injury during trials. This follows a previous discontinuation of a twice-daily version due to high dropout rates and adverse effects like nausea and vomiting [5] Viking's Progress - Viking Therapeutics is advancing its oral weight loss treatment VK2735, which has shown strong interest in its phase 2 trial and is set to enter phase 3 trials for its subcutaneous version. VK2735 is a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist, similar to Lilly's drugs [6][8] Market Implications - Pfizer's loss in the weight loss candidate space may benefit Viking by delaying competition in the market. There is speculation that Pfizer could consider acquiring or partnering with Viking, which would enhance Viking's market position [9][10] Investment Considerations - Viking's strong clinical trial results and the high growth potential of the weight loss market make it an attractive investment opportunity, despite the absence of market-ready products. Investors willing to take on some risk may find Viking a compelling buy [11]