Palatin Initiates Phase 2 Clinical Study of Bremelanotide for the Treatment of Obesity

Core Insights - The article discusses the initiation of a Phase 2 clinical study by Palatin Technologies to evaluate the co-administration of bremelanotide, an MC4R agonist, with tirzepatide (GLP-1/GIP) for obesity treatment, with topline data expected by the end of 2024 [1][8] Company Overview - Palatin Technologies is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing first-in-class medicines that modulate melanocortin receptor systems, targeting diseases with significant unmet medical needs and commercial potential [5][8] Clinical Study Details - The Phase II study, titled "BMT-801," has FDA clearance and aims to enroll up to 60 patients currently on tirzepatide across five trial sites in the U.S. The study will assess the safety and efficacy of bremelanotide as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with GLP-1/GIP therapy [2][8] Obesity Context - Obesity, defined as a BMI ≥30 kg/m², is a growing public health concern linked to increased mortality and serious health conditions, with approximately 42% of U.S. adults and one in five teens affected [4][8] Mechanism of Action - Genetic analysis highlights the melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) as crucial in appetite regulation, with mutations leading to obesity. MC4R agonists are seen as promising targets for obesity treatments due to their role in promoting satiety [3][9]