Oral GLP-1 Race Heats Up with Kailera/Hengrui China Data
Key Questions
What were the key Phase 3 results for Kailera/Hengrui's HRS-7535/KAI-7535 in China?
The trial showed approximately 10% weight loss, but nausea and vomiting rates reached around 70%, raising tolerability concerns. US Phase 2 results are still pending.
Which companies are competing in the oral GLP-1 space?
Lilly with orforglipron and Novo with amycretin are advancing their candidates alongside Kailera/Hengrui. Tolerability remains a key hurdle for the entire class.
Why is tolerability a major focus in the oral GLP-1 race?
High rates of gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and vomiting in early data could limit patient adherence and commercial success. Developers are working to balance efficacy with better tolerability profiles.
Kailera/Hengrui's HRS-7535/KAI-7535 Phase 3 in China shows ~10% weight loss but nausea/vomiting rates ~70%, raising tolerability concerns. US Phase 2 results pending. Competitors Lilly (orforglipron) and Novo (amycretin) also advancing. The race for effective oral GLP-1s continues with tolerability as key hurdle.