Comparison
Setmelanotide vs. VK2735
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Metabolic
Metabolic
CAS no.
920014-72-8
no data
Molecular weight
1117.32 g/mol
no data
Half-life
11 h
no data
Sequence
Ac-Arg-Cys(1)-D-Ala-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Cys(1)-NH2 (zyklisches Oktapeptid, Disulfidbrücke Cys2–Cys8)no data
Mechanism of action
Setmelanotide
Setmelanotide is an agonist at the melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R), a central receptor of the hypothalamic melanocortin pathway involved in the control of energy balance, satiety and body weight. In certain genetic defects (e.g. in POMC, PCSK1 or LEPR), the natural activation of MC4R is reduced. Setmelanotide activates MC4R directly, thereby bypassing the upstream defect. This description is mechanistic and neutral and does not constitute a recommendation for use.
VK2735
VK2735 activates both the GLP-1 and the GIP receptor — a dual mechanism similar to that of tirzepatide, suppressing appetite and food intake.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human RCT
Studies
4
1
of which in humans
3
1
Effects recorded
3
2
Open conflicts
1
0
Documented adverse events
3
1
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Setmelanotide and VK2735?
- Setmelanotide is classified as "Metabolic", while VK2735 is classified as "Metabolic". Setmelanotide: Setmelanotide (brand name Imcivree) is a synthetic cyclic octapeptide and an agonist at the melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R). It was developed and approved as a prescription medicine for chronic weight management in rare genetic forms of obesity within the MC4R signalling pathway (including POMC, PCSK1 and LEPR deficiency as well as Bardet-Biedl syndrome). The following information is provided for informational and educational purposes only. VK2735: VK2735 is a dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist from Viking Therapeutics, in development in both subcutaneous and oral forms for obesity. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Setmelanotide or VK2735?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Setmelanotide and "Human RCT" for VK2735. A higher evidence level means more robust data, but says nothing about suitability for an individual. The full body of evidence is on each peptide's own page.
- What is the legal status of Setmelanotide and VK2735 in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Setmelanotide — Prescription, VK2735 — Unapproved. United States: Setmelanotide — Prescription, VK2735 — Unapproved. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.