Daewoong Pharmaceutical announced on the 6th that it will commence full-scale development of an obesity treatment utilizing a microneedle patch loaded with GLP-1 (Glucagon-like peptide-1) analogues. The microneedle technology, which involves applying an ultrara-small 1cm(2) patch to the arm or abdomen, represents an advanced formulation that significantly enhances user cononvenience over traditional obesity treatments. Daewoong Pharmaceutical is set to initiate Phase 1 clinical trials early next year, with the goal of commercializing the product by 2028.

The company is developing an innovative, painless microneedle obesity treatment that can be applied weekly to the arms or abdomen, delivering medication directly through the microvasculature, offering a convenient alternative to traditional, injectable GLP-1 analogue therapies. It maintains the efficacy of existing injectables and offers the significant benefit of room temperature storage, eliminating the need for a cold storage system. This is a marked improvement over oral obesity treatments, which suffer from low absorption rates of about 1% bioavailability and often cause unpleasant side effects such as vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea.

Daewoong Therapeutics (CEO Bokki Kang), a subsidiary of Daewoong Pharmaceutical, has completed preclinical studies and submitted data for a microneedle patch within the Semaglutide series, a GLP-1 analogue, using its proprietary 'CLOPAM' (Closed-Packed Aeroperssured Microneedle) platform. This platform is secured by 6 international (Patent Cooperation Treatment, PCT) and 23 domestic patents, of which 5 are registered, encompassing various aspects of manufacturing and packaging. The technology addresses previous challenges, significantly enhancing drug uniformity, preventing contamination, and ensuring stability.

The microneedle manufacturing technology preserves the integrity of the biodegradable needles, which are sensitive to moisture and impact, until they are used. Daewoong Pharmaceutical are poised to enter this market with its innovative microneedle obesity treatment by 2028, aiming to revolutionize the sector by addressing the limitations of current therapies, especially in improving treatment adherence--a significant challenge highlighted by Eli Lilly's CSO, Dr. Dan Skovronsky. This novel treatment, nearing Phase 1 clinical trials, could help prevent weight regain post-GLP-1 analogue use by mimicking the incretin hormone to suppress appetite and regulate blood sugar, thus aiding in the management of obesity and diabetes.

Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to: Regulatory and governmental approvals: The approval process for pharmaceutical products is subject to extensive regulations and may involve uncertainties and delays. Any failure to obtain necessary approvals or the occurrence of delays in the approval process could adversely affect Daewoong Pharmaceutical's business and results of operations; and Clinical trials: The success of Daewoong Pharmaceutical's products depends on the results of early clinical trials may not be used. The results of early clinical trials may be used.

Daewoong Pharmactical is expected to be completed in 2028.