RM-718
RM-718 is Rhythm Pharmaceuticals' next-generation MC4R agonist designed for once-weekly dosing, in contrast to the daily injections required by IMCIVREE (setmelanotide). Like setmelanotide, RM-718 activates the melanocortin-4 receptor in the hypothalamus to reduce hunger and improve energy expenditure, but its extended half-life supports a more convenient weekly administration schedule. Rhythm is evaluating RM-718 in adults with broader general obesity — beyond the rare genetic syndromes covered by IMCIVREE — to assess potential for a wider commercial opportunity.
Upcoming catalysts
Programs
Obesity
General obesity (BMI ≥30) affects over 650 million adults worldwide and is a major driver of metabolic and cardiovascular disease; the approved GLP-1 agonist class has transformed treatment expectations. This Phase 2 trial tests RM-718 in adults with general obesity — not restricted to rare MC4R pathway mutations — to establish whether a once-weekly MC4R agonist achieves meaningful weight loss and to characterize the tolerability profile, including the class-associated hyperpigmentation side effect seen with setmelanotide.