Viking Therapeutics (VKTX) Conference Call Summary Company Overview - Viking Therapeutics is focused on developing novel therapeutics for metabolic and endocrine diseases, with a primary emphasis on metabolic disease programs, particularly the VK2735 program, a dual agonist of the GLP-1 and GIP receptors [3][40]. Key Programs and Developments - **VK2735 Program**: - Completed a Phase 2 study demonstrating significant weight loss at 13 weeks, with results showing a reduction in body weight from approximately 9% to 15% from baseline [14][15]. - Planning to move into Phase 3 trials later this month [3][25]. - An oral formulation of VK2735 is currently in Phase 2, having shown proof of concept in Phase 1 [4][40]. - An amylin agonist program is also in development, with an IND filing planned for later this year [4][40]. - **Phase 1 and Phase 2 Studies**: - Phase 1 studies indicated a dose-dependent weight loss of up to 8% after four doses, with good safety and tolerability profiles [12][24]. - The Phase 2 "Venture Study" targeted obese subjects, showing promising results in weight loss and a shift towards normal glycemic status in pre-diabetic patients [17][24]. Efficacy and Safety Data - VK2735 demonstrated a mean weight loss of 14.7% after 13 weeks of treatment, with over 90% of treatment-emergent adverse events classified as mild to moderate [24][25]. - GI tolerability was assessed, showing expected mild to moderate adverse events such as nausea and vomiting, primarily occurring early in the treatment [19][20][33]. Future Plans - Initiating two Phase 3 studies this month: one for patients with obesity and another for those with obesity and type 2 diabetes [25][26]. - A maintenance study is planned to evaluate the transition from weekly to monthly dosing regimens [27][42]. - Development of a tablet formulation is ongoing, with a Phase 2 study called "Venture Oral" initiated, which includes multiple dosing arms [35][36]. Supply Chain and Financials - Viking Therapeutics has secured a long-term supply agreement with Cordon Pharma, ensuring access to a multi-ton annual supply of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) and additional manufacturing capabilities [38][39]. - The company ended the first quarter with $850 million in cash, which is expected to support the registration program and further development of the oral program [39]. Market and Partnership Considerations - The company is open to partnerships but is also prepared to advance its programs independently if necessary [55]. - There is a maintained high level of interest from larger pharmaceutical companies in the obesity market, which is considered the largest market in pharmaceutical history [56][57]. Conclusion - Viking Therapeutics is advancing its VK2735 program with promising efficacy and safety data, preparing for Phase 3 trials, and exploring oral formulations while maintaining a strong financial position and supply chain capabilities [40].