Pfizer has ceased development of its oral GLP-1 weight loss drug candidate, danuglipron, after a study participant “experienced potential drug-induced liver injury,” the company said April 14.
In dose-optimization studies, once-daily danuglipron met pharmacokinetic endpoints and showed potential for promising phase 3 trial results, Pfizer said. The drug’s frequency of liver enzyme elevations were also in-line with approved GLP-1s.
However, after an asymptomatic participant in one of the dose-optimization studies sustained a liver injury that resolved after discontinuing the drug, the company decided to axe the product.
“After a review of the totality of information, including all clinical data generated to date for danuglipron and recent input from regulators, Pfizer has decided to discontinue development of the molecule,” the company said.
Pfizer said it will continue developing its oral glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptor candidate and other obesity treatments.
