Viking Therapeutics Shares Rise 8% on Obesity Pipeline Optimism and Buyout Speculation
VKTX•Viking Therapeutics shares jumped 8% Tuesday, marking their best session since late March on optimism over its obesity drug pipeline and buyout speculation. The company expects third-quarter data from a 180-patient maintenance study of its dual GLP-1/GIP agonist VK2735 and plans late-stage oral tablet trials in H2 2026.
1. Stock Rally
Viking Therapeutics shares closed nearly 8% higher on Tuesday, marking their strongest one-day gain since late March. The surge reflects renewed investor interest fueled by speculation of potential buyout offers and confidence in the company’s obesity drug program.
2. Pipeline Development
The company’s lead candidate, VK2735, is a dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist being advanced in both injectable and oral forms for obesity treatment. Early enrollment in the late-stage VANQUISH program for the subcutaneous version is complete, underscoring progress toward regulatory milestones.
3. Maintenance Study Data
A crucial 180-patient maintenance study, initiated in January 2026, evaluates sustained weight loss regimens following initial weekly injections of VK2735. Patients will transition to monthly or weekly injections, daily or weekly oral tablets, or placebo to assess efficacy, tolerability and dosing flexibility.
4. Oral Tablet Late-Stage Trials
Pending the third-quarter maintenance data readout, Viking plans to launch pivotal late-stage trials of its oral VK2735 tablet in the second half of 2026. Success in these trials could position the company as a competitive oral obesity treatment provider alongside major industry players.
