Amgen’s (NASDAQ:AMGN) investigational weight loss drug has shown positive preclinical results according to a data published in the journal Nature Metabolism, suggesting the drugmaker is moving closer to entering a heated race with Eli Lilly (LLY) and Novo Nordisk (NVO) in the obesity care space.
The data showed maridebart cafraglutide (AMG 133 or MariTide) effectively reduces body weight and improves metabolic markers in two preclinical models. In a phase 1 clinical study, AMG 133 had an acceptable safety and tolerability profile along with dose-dependent weight loss.
The study also suggested weight loss was sustained for up to 150 days after the last dose. The drug has a combination effect of an anti-GIPR monoclonal antibody (mAb) and a GLP-1 receptor agonist, which showed more pronounced weight loss than either agent alone in preclinical obesity models.
Phase 2 trial results of Amgen’s (AMGN) drug are expected to arrive late this year. The sustained effects of AMG 133 will be a key differentiating factor compared to the current leaders in the obesity care space: Novo Nordisk’s (NVO) established Wegovy and Eli Lilly’s (LLY) newer Zepbound.