Rhythm Pharmaceuticals Advances Genetic Obesity Treatment with Setmelanotide Study

Rhythm Pharmaceuticals ((RYTM)) announced an update on their ongoing clinical study.

Rhythm Pharmaceuticals is conducting a Phase 3 clinical study titled EMANATE: A Study of Setmelanotide in Patients With Specific Gene Variants in the MC4R Pathway. The study aims to evaluate the efficacy of setmelanotide, a potential treatment for obesity in patients with specific genetic variants in the Melanocortin-4 Receptor pathway, including POMC/PCSK1, LEPR, NCOA1(SRC1), or SH2B1. This research is significant as it targets genetic causes of obesity, potentially offering a new therapeutic avenue for affected individuals.

The intervention being tested is setmelanotide, administered via subcutaneous injection. This drug is designed to address obesity by targeting specific genetic pathways, with the study comparing its effects against a placebo.

The study is interventional, with a randomized, parallel assignment model. It employs triple masking, meaning the participant, care provider, and investigator are unaware of the treatment allocations. The primary purpose of the study is treatment-focused.

The study began on December 10, 2021, and is currently active but not recruiting. The last update was submitted on August 12, 2025, indicating ongoing progress. These dates are crucial for investors to track the study’s development and potential market entry.

The successful development of setmelanotide could significantly impact Rhythm Pharmaceuticals’ stock performance by addressing a niche market in genetic obesity treatment. This could enhance investor sentiment, particularly if the drug proves effective against competitors in the obesity treatment market.

The study is ongoing, with further details available on the ClinicalTrials portal.