Viking Therapeutics Launched Phase 3 Obesity Drug Trials
The company has begun testing its oral medication, VK2735, in over 1,000 adults to measure weight reduction outcomes.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Weight Loss
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Viking Therapeutics has officially initiated the Sunrise-1 and Sunrise-2 Phase 3 clinical trials to evaluate its experimental obesity drug, VK2735. These trials will assess the effectiveness of daily oral doses among 1,120 adult participants over the course of 68 weeks.
Why it matters
The program represents a major effort by Viking Therapeutics to enter the competitive weight-loss drug market, which is projected to reach $114 billion in annual sales by 2030. Success in these trials could provide a new treatment option for patients seeking alternatives to existing injectable medications.
The Sunrise-1 and Sunrise-2 studies are randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter trials testing daily oral doses of 27.5 mg, 35 mg, and 55 mg against a placebo. While preliminary Phase 2 data showed weight reductions of up to 12.2% after 13 weeks, these Phase 3 findings are pending completion of the 68-week study period.
The players
Viking Therapeutics
A biotechnology firm developing metabolic and endocrine therapies to compete in the weight-loss drug market.
Eli Lilly
A pharmaceutical manufacturer and competitor currently leading the market for weight-loss medications.
Novo Nordisk
A major pharmaceutical entity producing widely used, injectable weight-loss treatments.
The details
The VK2735 oral program aims to provide a non-injectable alternative for weight management by targeting pathways involved in appetite regulation. Each study evaluates weight changes over 68 weeks to confirm if the daily dosing regimen sustains the reductions observed in earlier Phase 2 testing. Viking Therapeutics is simultaneously advancing the Vanquish injectable program, which has already enrolled 5,500 participants, as part of a broader strategy to challenge existing market leaders.
Timeline
June 30, 2026: Viking reported $502 million in cash and investments.
September 2026: The company raised $548 million via stock and note offerings.
October 14, 2026: Viking launched the Sunrise Phase 3 clinical trials.
Health Landscape
This development marks a significant expansion of Viking Therapeutics' research portfolio alongside the company's ongoing Vanquish Phase 3 injectable trials. It reflects a broader industry trend of shifting toward diversified delivery methods in a weight-loss market projected to reach $114 billion by 2030.
These trials represent ongoing research rather than an available treatment, and you should monitor future results to understand how this oral option may compare to current standards. Discuss any questions about your personal weight management goals or existing treatment plans with your physician.
The takeaway
The Sunrise-1 and Sunrise-2 studies will help determine if an oral tablet can effectively support weight loss as an alternative to common injections. Continue to consult with your doctor about established, evidence-based options for weight management while waiting for further data on these new programs.
Further reading
For more on the current landscape of metabolic health, visit our Weight Loss section.
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