Amgen(US:AMGN) Zhi Tong Cai Jing·2026-01-14 07:16Core Viewpoint - Amgen's experimental weight loss drug MariTide shows promising results in clinical trials, allowing obese patients to maintain weight loss with monthly injections, contrasting with the weekly injections of current popular weight loss medications [1][2][4] Group 1: Drug Mechanism and Administration - MariTide is a GLP-1 related drug that activates GLP-1 receptors while blocking GIP receptors, offering a dual mechanism that differs from traditional GLP-1 agonists [2][3] - The drug is currently in Phase 3 clinical trials and has not yet received FDA approval for clinical sales [2] - The convenience of administration is highlighted, with potential for monthly or even quarterly injections, which could improve patient adherence compared to weekly injections required by existing treatments [1][4] Group 2: Clinical Efficacy - In the Phase 2 trial, participants experienced an average weight loss of approximately 20% over 52 weeks, with no plateau in weight loss observed, indicating sustained effectiveness [4] - The dual mechanism of action is expected to provide a more durable intervention compared to existing weight loss drugs [3][4] Group 3: Market Potential - Goldman Sachs projects the global anti-obesity drug market could reach $90 billion to $100 billion by 2030, significantly higher than the current market size [5][6] - The market is viewed as having substantial growth potential, with Amgen's MariTide expected to play a key role in this expansion, potentially leading to a revaluation of the company's stock [6] - The increasing global obesity rates and the demand for effective weight loss treatments are driving the market growth, with predictions of a large patient population beginning treatment in the coming years [6][7] Group 4: Competitive Landscape - Goldman Sachs expresses a more favorable outlook on MariTide compared to existing drugs like Novo Nordisk's Wegovy and Eli Lilly's Zepbound, suggesting greater upside potential for Amgen's stock [6] - The market is entering a new phase characterized by "price for volume" strategies, driven by policy changes and the introduction of oral weight loss medications, which are expected to lower barriers for patient access [7]