Viking Therapeutics recently announced phase 2 data for its oral GLP-1/GIP receptor dual agonist VK-2735, demonstrating significant weight loss of up to 12.2% over 13 weeks. Despite meeting efficacy endpoints, a high rate of gastrointestinal side effects led to discontinuations of up to 38% at the highest dose. These safety concerns triggered a sharp decline in Viking’s stock value and raised investor apprehension about the drug's commercial viability, though analysts see potential for its use in weight-loss maintenance at lower doses. This underscores the balance challenges in developing effective, tolerable oral obesity treatments.