Palatin’s obesity study shows promise in appetite control

CRANBURY, N.J. - Palatin Technologies, Inc. (NYSE American: PTN), a micro-cap biotech company with a market capitalization of $6.4 million, has reported positive findings from its Phase 2 obesity study, BMT-801, evaluating the effects of melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) agonist bremelanotide, both alone and in combination with the glucagon-like peptide-1/gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GLP-1/GIP) tirzepatide. The study demonstrated significant improvements in appetite suppression, fullness, and satiety among participants. According to InvestingPro data, the stock has experienced significant volatility, with a 77% decline year-to-date, suggesting investors may find current levels interesting for further research.

The trial included three arms: bremelanotide with tirzepatide, bremelanotide alone, and tirzepatide alone. Results indicated that the combination and individual treatments all led to notable increases in patient-reported appetite suppression, with bremelanotide showing comparable effectiveness to tirzepatide. Notably, a low-dose regimen of bremelanotide was effective in preventing the appetite rebound commonly experienced after discontinuing GLP-1/GIP therapy, which is a challenge in the long-term management of obesity.

Patients who transitioned to a placebo following initial weight loss with tirzepatide did not maintain appetite suppression, whereas those who switched to low-dose bremelanotide sustained their weight without significant regain. This highlights the potential role of MC4R agonists in maintaining long-term weight loss.

The BMT-801 Phase 2 trial’s topline results, published last month, showed statistically significant weight loss in the combined treatment group compared to placebo over eight weeks. Further analysis of secondary outcomes, including body composition and BMI, is in progress, with full study results slated for presentation at an upcoming medical conference. The trial is registered at clinicaltrials.gov under NCT06565611.

Palatin continues to develop its pipeline of next-generation MC4R agonists, including long-acting peptides and oral small molecules. These treatments target broader obesity indications, including monotherapy and combination therapies with incretin-based treatments, as well as rare and genetic obesity disorders. The company anticipates IND filings by the end of Q4 2025 and expects initial clinical data in the first half of 2026. InvestingPro analysis reveals the company’s financial health score is currently rated as WEAK, with analysts not anticipating profitability this year. Investors can access comprehensive analysis and 14 additional ProTips about Palatin’s financial situation through InvestingPro’s detailed research reports.

The melanocortin-4 receptor is central to appetite regulation, and genetic mutations impairing MC4R signaling are linked to several rare obesity disorders. MC4R agonists, which promote satiety, are considered promising targets for obesity treatment.

This article is based on a press release statement from Palatin Technologies, Inc. The company is scheduled to report its next earnings on May 20, 2025, with analysts maintaining a consensus BUY recommendation despite recent challenges. For detailed financial analysis and expert insights on Palatin Technologies, including Fair Value estimates and growth prospects, visit InvestingPro.

In other recent news, Palatin Technologies, Inc. has reported several significant developments. The company revealed promising results from a Phase 2b study on a melanocortin agonist treatment for Type 2 diabetic nephropathy, with 71% of participants achieving a reduction in kidney damage indicators. Additionally, Palatin announced positive outcomes from a Phase 2 obesity study, where a combination of bremelanotide and tirzepatide led to significant weight loss in patients. The company also reported encouraging Phase 2 trial results for PL8177, a drug targeting ulcerative colitis, with 33% of patients achieving clinical remission. Meanwhile, Palatin is contesting a delisting notice from NYSE American due to non-compliance with stockholders’ equity requirements, with an appeal process currently underway. The company is actively pursuing strategies to strengthen its financial position, including licensing discussions and equity financing negotiations. These recent developments underscore Palatin’s ongoing efforts in advancing its clinical programs and addressing regulatory challenges.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.