VK2735 (SUNRISE-1)

Oct. 14, 2026: Viking Therapeutics (NASDAQ: VKTX) announced initiation of the SUNRISE Phase 3 program for oral VK2735, a dual GLP-1/GIP agonist for obesity. The program includes SUNRISE-1 in obese or overweight adults without type 2 diabetes but with at least one weight-related comorbidity, and SUNRISE-2 in obese or overweight adults with type 2 diabetes. Both randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled multicenter trials will enroll 560 patients each and test once-daily oral VK2735 at 27.5 mg, 35 mg, or 55 mg versus placebo for 68 weeks.

The primary endpoint in both studies is percent change in body weight from baseline versus placebo at 68 weeks; secondary/exploratory endpoints include proportions achieving at least 5%, 10%, 15%, or 20% weight loss.

The company also highlighted 2025 Phase 2 VENTURE-Oral topline results: the study met primary and secondary endpoints, with statistically significant, dose-dependent mean weight loss of up to 12.2% at 13 weeks, up to 97% of patients achieving at least 5% weight loss, and up to 80% achieving at least 10% weight loss. Reported drug-related TEAEs were 98% mild or moderate, with GI events most common.

Viking said subcutaneous VK2735 is also in Phase 3 via VANQUISH-1 and VANQUISH-2, both fully enrolled.