Viking Therapeutics released impressive clinical trial results for its weight-loss drug VK2735, showing 16-19% body weight loss and strong maintenance results. However, Eli Lilly's stock barely moved because the company has its own robust maintenance strategies (Foundayo and dose reduction approaches) and a deeper pipeline. While Viking could become a competitor in the growing weight-loss market, it still needs to confirm results in larger Phase 3 trials, and Eli Lilly remains the safer, more established choice.
Axe note: Viking Therapeutics impressed with new trial data, yet Eli Lilly’s share price barely budged.