The Motley Fool·2026-03-18 00:30Core Viewpoint - The weight loss drug market is emerging as a significant growth opportunity in the pharmaceutical industry, comparable to the technology sector, with Eli Lilly and Viking Therapeutics as key players [1][2]. Eli Lilly - Eli Lilly leads the weight loss drug market with a 60% share, driven by its products Mounjaro and Zepbound, which have shown triple-digit revenue growth [5][13]. - The company entered the GLP-1 drug market after Novo Nordisk and has focused on increasing manufacturing capacity to meet demand [4][5]. - Lilly's oral weight loss drug is currently under regulatory review, potentially expanding its market presence [6]. Viking Therapeutics - Viking Therapeutics is advancing its candidate VK2735 into phase 3 trials, with promising results suggesting it could compete effectively with Lilly and Novo's offerings [8][9]. - The company has another candidate targeting amylin and calcitonin receptors, which are important for metabolism [10]. - Demand for weight loss drugs is high, providing Viking with an opportunity to capture market share if its trials are successful [10]. Investment Considerations - Both Eli Lilly and Viking Therapeutics are viewed as strong investment opportunities in the weight loss drug market, with Lilly currently generating significant revenue and Viking showing potential for future growth [13][15]. - Lilly's stock has seen a decline of about 8% this year, trading at 28 times forward earnings estimates, while Viking's stock has increased by approximately 2% this year [13][14]. - The upcoming regulatory decision on Lilly's oral weight loss drug could serve as a catalyst for its stock price [15].