The Motley Foolยท2025-08-13 08:10Core Viewpoint - The enthusiasm for weight loss medications is increasing, with several companies, including Viking Therapeutics, Novo Nordisk, and Eli Lilly, preparing oral formulations to compete in a lucrative market [1][7]. Company Analysis Viking Therapeutics - Viking Therapeutics is developing VK2735, a novel dual agonist targeting GLP-1 and GIP receptors for metabolic disorders, currently in both subcutaneous and oral clinical trials [4]. - The phase 3 trial for the subcutaneous formulation began in June and will take 78 weeks, with results expected in 2027, while the phase 2 oral trial results are anticipated in 2025 [5]. - If the oral trial is successful, it is likely that a major pharmaceutical company may consider acquiring Viking [6]. Novo Nordisk - Novo Nordisk is a leading player in the weight loss market with its product Wegovy and is developing an oral version of it, which has shown similar weight loss results to the subcutaneous formulation [7][8]. - The FDA has accepted Novo Nordisk's submission for the oral formulation, with a decision expected in Q4 2025 [8]. Eli Lilly - Eli Lilly is developing Orforglipron, a small molecule drug, instead of an oral formulation of Zepbound, which is not suitable for oral delivery [9]. - Orforglipron has completed a successful phase 3 trial, achieving a mean weight loss of 12.4% at the highest dosage over 72 weeks, with plans to submit to the FDA by the end of the year [10]. Market Dynamics - The competition among Viking, Novo Nordisk, and Eli Lilly is intense, with the success of their respective oral formulations likely to influence investment decisions [11]. - The timelines for the release of phase 2 data from Viking and the FDA decisions for Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly create a critical period for potential investment opportunities [11].