BUZZ - Citi says that Eli Lilly's next-generation initiatives in the obesity sector could further strengthen its advantage

September 24 - ** Eli Lilly and Company (LLY.N) is expected to release mid-stage clinical data next week for the combination of its next-generation weight-loss drug candidate eloralintide and its blockbuster weight-loss drug Zepbound (chemical name tirzepatide)

** Citi analysts said these data will test whether eloralintide can extend the efficacy of tirzepatide without impacting tolerability or treatment compliance

** Eloralintide belongs to a class of drugs that mimic the pancreatic hormone amylin, and its side effects may be milder than those of the popular GLP-1 class of drugs

** Citi stated that 16% to 18% weight loss would be a "robust outcome," while a result above 18% would be a complete victory, helping further strengthen Eli Lilly's obesity product portfolio, meet a broader range of patient needs, and provide greater treatment flexibility

** In a mid-stage study last year, a 9 mg dosage of eloralintide helped patients lose about 20.1% (link), or 21.3 kilograms

** As of the close of the previous trading day, LLY is up about 7% so far this year

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