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A specimen of the Metabolic drawer Drawer A · Metabolic

VK2735

Investigational

A dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist from Viking Therapeutics with both subcutaneous and oral formulations. Phase 2 VENTURE trial showed 14.7% weight loss at 13 weeks (SC) and 12.2% (oral). Phase 3 VANQUISH-1 enrolled 4,500 patients.

Viking 2735

Research evidence
Moderate

11 human studies

Preclinical
8%
Human research
92%

Based on 12 cited sources

Numeric assessment unreviewed

A historical numeric score is recorded but has not passed a current, compound-specific assessment review. No numeric score is displayed.

This is a limitation of the numeric assessment, not a measured absence of benefit. It does not re-review the separately recorded catalogue classification or establish efficacy or safety.

Scoring context and limitations
~
Evidence Level
moderate
Phase 2 clinical trials for obesity (Viking Therapeutics).
Investigational
Identity
SCALE · 1:1 N-TERMINUS C-TERMINUS 39 AA · ~4,000 Da (estimated)
Also Known As
Viking 2735
Class
Acylated peptide
Length
39 amino acids
Mol. weight
~4,000 Da (estimated)
Sequence
Proprietary (GLP-1/GIP dual agonist)
Molecular Structure
H
A
E
G
T
Hydrophobic
Polar
Positive
Negative

The mechanisms of VK2735 are based on its dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonism, a well-characterized pharmacological approach validated by tirzepatide approval.

How It Works (Simplified)

VK2735 activates two complementary hormone pathways for enhanced metabolic effects:

GLP-1 Activation

Binds GLP-1 receptors in brain and gut, reducing appetite, slowing gastric emptying, and enhancing glucose-dependent insulin release.

GIP Activation

Activates GIP receptors on fat cells and pancreas, amplifying metabolic effects and potentially improving adipose tissue function.

Dual Synergy

Combined activation produces greater weight loss than either pathway alone, as demonstrated by tirzepatide vs semaglutide comparisons.

VK2735 oral formulation achieves systemic absorption without food restrictions, unlike oral semaglutide which requires fasting.

Key Research: VENTURE Phase 2 (2024) demonstrated 14.7% weight loss at 13 weeks with no plateau, suggesting continued efficacy with longer treatment.

Important Limitations

  • Phase 3 data (VANQUISH-1) not yet available; efficacy based on Phase 2
  • Long-term safety beyond 13 weeks not established in published data
  • NOT commercially available - investigational drug only
  • Comparison to approved agents (tirzepatide, semaglutide) requires Phase 3 results
i. GLP-1 Receptor Pathway · Appetite & Glucose
VK2735GLP-1R activationHypothalamus satietyReduced food intakePancreatic beta cellsInsulin secretionGastric emptying delayPostprandial glucose control
ii. GIP Receptor Pathway · Metabolic Enhancement
VK2735GIPR activationAdipose tissueEnhanced lipid handlingPancreatic beta cellsAmplified insulin response
Mechanism Dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonism enhancing satiety and metabolic signaling
Established 4 direct studies
Benefit shown to promote significant weight loss
Evidence Level
High
4 Human
1 Animal
2 In Vitro
Mechanism GLP-1 mediated glucose-dependent insulin secretion and glucagon suppression
Established 3 direct studies
Benefit shown to improve glycemic control
Evidence Level
Moderate
2 Human
1 Animal
1 In Vitro
Mechanism GIP receptor activation on adipocytes enhancing lipid metabolism
Supported 2 direct studies
Benefit may improve fat tissue metabolism
Evidence Level
Moderate
1 Human
2 Animal
1 In Vitro
Mechanism Delayed gastric emptying reducing postprandial glucose excursions
Established 3 direct studies
Benefit shown to reduce appetite and food intake
Evidence Level
High
3 Human
1 Animal
Mechanism Confidence
Established
Supported
Emerging
Evidence Level
High
Moderate
Low
Very Low
Phase 01 1
Week 1-4

Initial dose titration phase. GI side effects (nausea, diarrhea) most common during this period but typically mild-moderate. Early appetite suppression begins.

NCT06068946
Phase 02 2
Week 4-8

Continued weight loss with dose escalation. VENTURE data showed progressive weight reduction without plateau through week 13.

NCT06068946
Phase 03 3
Week 8-13

Phase 2 endpoint. 14.7% weight loss achieved at highest SC dose. Weight loss curves still declining, suggesting further reduction possible with longer treatment.

NCT06068946
Phase 04 4
Week 13-78

Phase 3 duration. VANQUISH-1 will evaluate 78-week efficacy and safety.

NCT07104500

Research-based observations

This timeline reflects observations from published clinical and preclinical studies. Individual responses may vary significantly. This is not a guarantee of effects or a dosing schedule. Consult qualified healthcare providers for personalized guidance.

Synergistic
Compatible
Caution
Avoid

Both affect GI function. VK2735 slows gastric emptying while BPC-157 is gastroprotective. Monitor GI symptoms if combined.

Same mechanism of action (dual GLP-1/GIP agonism). Concurrent use would be duplicative with increased risk of adverse effects. No clinical rationale for combination.

Overlapping GLP-1 receptor agonism. Concurrent use would increase risk of GI adverse effects and hypoglycemia without additional benefit.

Research Note: Interaction data is based on published literature, mechanistic understanding, and theoretical considerations. Most peptide combinations lack direct clinical study. This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare providers.

12 Sources 11 Human 1 Preclinical

Use the source links in the research discussion above to inspect the referenced records.

This dossier synthesizes available evidence from peer-reviewed literature, regulatory documents, and clinical trial registries. Evidence strength labels summarize the cited material for this entry and should be read alongside its population, model, and study limitations.

For complete methodology details, see our Methodology page.

Important Disclaimer

This dossier is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making health decisions.

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Conditions Studied

2 entries

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