Goldman Sachs Sticks to Neutral on Viking Therapeutics Amid Obesity Drug Study Data

Goldman Sachs has reaffirmed its Neutral rating on Viking Therapeutics' stock following the release of data from the company's obesity drug study. The firm noted that the results appeared encouraging but were anticipated given the study design with multiple dosing options.

The data showed outcomes across multiple small incremental doses designed to identify the optimal benefit-risk profile for the treatment. However, Goldman Sachs emphasized that a longer follow-up period is required to assess the durability of weight loss maintenance, particularly for monthly dosing regimens.

Investors are awaiting results from the Part 2 oral maintenance study, which will be more significant for the company's commercial value. The firm also pointed to increasing market acceptance of oral obesity drugs as a factor in its assessment of Viking Therapeutics' development program.