Amgen's MariTide Shows Promising Weight Loss Results in Phase 2 Study Amidst $827 Million Trading Volume

On June 24, 2025, Amgen's trading volume reached $827 million, marking a 48.03% decrease from the previous day. The stock closed with a 1.85% increase, reflecting investor sentiment amidst significant developments in the company's obesity treatment pipeline.

Amgen recently presented results from its Phase 2 obesity study of MariTide at the American Diabetes Association's 85th Scientific Sessions. The study demonstrated that MariTide, a long-acting peptide-antibody conjugate administered monthly or less frequently, achieved up to 20% average weight loss in individuals with obesity without Type 2 diabetes, and up to 17% in those with both obesity and Type 2 diabetes. These results were sustained over 52 weeks without a weight loss plateau, indicating potential for further reduction. Additionally, MariTide showed significant improvements in cardiometabolic measures, including HbA1c levels, waist circumference, blood pressure, and lipid parameters.

The study also highlighted the importance of dose escalation in improving gastrointestinal tolerability. Participants who started with lower doses experienced fewer gastrointestinal side effects, which were predominantly mild to moderate. The discontinuation rate due to gastrointestinal adverse events was lower in the dose escalation arms compared to non-dose escalation arms. This finding is crucial for optimizing patient adherence and long-term weight management.

Following these promising Phase 2 results, Amgen has initiated the Phase 3 MARITIME program, which includes chronic weight management studies and additional trials for people living with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, heart failure, and obstructive sleep apnea. These studies aim to further evaluate the safety, efficacy, and tolerability of MariTide in a broader population, with the goal of providing sustainable, long-term treatments for obesity and related conditions.