The LIGHTEN study, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, enrolled 604 adults with overweight or obesity. Subjects received once-weekly subcutaneous injections of 5mg, 10mg, or 15mg doses. By the end of the 48-week period, the 15mg group demonstrated the most significant results, with no observed weight-loss plateau, suggesting potential for further benefits with extended treatment.

Beyond weight reduction, the drug showed significant improvements in metabolic health markers, including blood pressure, lipid profiles, and insulin resistance. Gastrointestinal side effects remained low, with nausea reported at 7.8% and vomiting at 4.9% among treatment groups. Notably, no participants withdrew from the study due to adverse events related to the medication.

Hansoh Pharma submitted a New Drug Application for Olatorepatide to China's National Medical Products Administration in June 2026. The company has also established a strategic partnership with Regeneron, which holds exclusive development and commercialization rights for the drug outside of China. Beyond weight management, the compound is currently undergoing Phase III testing for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.