Amgen's MariTide Obesity Drug Shows Promise in Phase 2 but Fails to Impress Investors

Amgen's obesity drug, MariTide, has achieved notable success in its Phase 2 trial, demonstrating an average weight loss of up to 20% in obese individuals without diabetes over 52 weeks, and 17% weight loss in those with diabetes[1][2]. The drug targets GLP-1 receptor activation and GIP receptor suppression, setting it as a potential rival to leading treatments like Novo Nordisk's Wegovy and Eli Lilly's Zepbound. Unlike its weekly-dosed competitors, MariTide offers a distinctive monthly administration, though it faces challenges such as a higher discontinuation rate due to side effects[1][2]. Despite its promising efficacy and negligible safety concerns, investors were not impressed, indicated by a drop in Amgen's share price, as their high expectations were not fully met[1][2]. Nonetheless, Amgen remains committed, planning a Phase 3 trial to explore further applications and impacts of MariTide[1].