Celltrion's Seo Jungjin: "Fourth-Generation Obesity Drug to Begin Animal Trials in May"

During Q&A Following the Shareholders' Meeting on the 24th
"Minimizing Side Effects Such as Muscle Loss"

Seo Jungjin, Chairman of Celltrion Group, has unveiled a detailed development roadmap for the company’s next-generation obesity drug pipeline.

During a Q&A session with shareholders following the regular shareholders' meeting held at Songdo Convensia, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon on the 24th, Chairman Seo stated, “The obesity treatment being developed by Celltrion is a fourth-generation drug,” adding, “We will begin regulatory animal trials in May this year.” He highlighted minimization of side effects as a key differentiator from first- to third-generation treatments. He explained, “The biggest side effect of obesity treatments is muscle loss, but the fourth generation shows the least muscle loss while maintaining consistent efficacy.”

Seo Jungjin, Chairman of Celltrion Group, is speaking at the regular shareholders' meeting held on the 24th at Songdo Convensia in Yeonsu-gu, Incheon. Celltrion

To establish a strong presence in the obesity treatment market, Celltrion is pursuing a two-track strategy by simultaneously developing a “quadruple-action injectable” (development name CT-G32) and an oral medication. This injectable activates four metabolic and hormonal receptors at once with a single treatment, thereby enhancing weight loss effects. Celltrion aims to improve upon the side effects of existing products and further increase appetite suppression and weight reduction efficacy. The company also plans to expand development into a metabolic disease treatment that promotes fat breakdown and regulates energy metabolism.

In addition, Chairman Seo indicated plans to accelerate clinical development, stating, “We have three fourth-generation obesity treatment candidates.” Currently, Celltrion is operating a total of 23 new drug pipelines, including 9 antibody-drug conjugates (ADC) and 5 multi-antibodies, focusing on securing future growth engines.

Regarding the accident at the Celltrion plant in Songdo, Incheon on the 22nd, where a contractor in his twenties died after falling while repairing a pipe leak, Chairman Seo stated, “A tragic incident occurred during pipe construction last Sunday,” and pledged, “Since this was an issue that arose during the work process, as top management, I will thoroughly examine the problems that occur during work and faithfully fulfill the responsibilities that both I and the company must undertake.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.