Sundeep Ganoria

Fri, May 16, 2025, 7:48 AM 4 min read

Corbus Pharmaceuticals, traded under the ticker CRBP, distinguishes itself from typical cannabis stocks by not participating in the cultivation or sale of marijuana. Instead, this clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company is dedicated to developing innovative medicines specifically targeting serious diseases.

CRB-913: A New Hope for Obesity Treatment

At the forefront of Corbus’ research is an oral cannabinoid-based small molecule known as CRB-913, which aims to serve as a treatment for obesity. As part of its ongoing development, Corbus commenced the single ascending dose/multiple ascending dose (SAD/MAD) phase I study of CRB-913 in March 2025, with anticipated results in the third quarter of the same year. Furthermore, the company is preparing for a follow-up phase Ib dose-ranging study set to begin in the fourth quarter of 2025, expected to conclude in the second half of 2026.

Exploring Market Potential: Cannabis and Obesity Sectors

The implications of CRB-913 bridge two rapidly growing sectors: cannabis and obesity treatments. The cannabis industry is on track to exceed $170 billion by 2032, while the obesity market is expected to reach around $100 billion by the end of this decade.

Clinical Advantages of CRB-913

While early-stage drug development is inherently risky, preclinical data suggest that CRB-913 holds significant promise compared to earlier CB1-targeting therapies. Notably, CRB-913 has a brain-to-plasma ratio 50 times lower than that of Sanofi‘s rimonabant, whose development was stalled due to psychiatric side effects.

This brain-to-plasma ratio is crucial, as it gauges how much of the drug enters the brain relative to the bloodstream; a lower ratio indicates reduced penetration into the central nervous system (CNS), which could lead to fewer CNS-related side effects.

Peripheral Restriction: A Key Feature

CRB-913 also exhibits a 15 times greater peripheral restriction compared to Novo Nordisk‘s monlunabant, which employs a similar action mechanism. A peripherally restricted drug is formulated to work outside the CNS, typically avoiding penetration of the blood-brain barrier. In a recent study, Novo Nordisk reported a weight loss of approximately 6.3% from baseline at week 16, while only 0.6% was observed in the placebo group. However, the occurrence of neuropsychiatric side effects was higher in patients taking Novo’s drug compared to the placebo, positioning CRB-913 as a potentially safer alternative due to its enhanced peripheral restriction.

Future Prospects: Expanding Beyond CRB-913

In addition to CRB-913, Corbus Pharmaceuticals is advancing a robust portfolio that includes two investigational oncology drugs aimed at treating solid tumors. This diversification amplifies Corbus’ potential, positioning it as a notable entity in both the cannabis and pharmaceuticals sectors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Corbus Pharmaceuticals known for?

Corbus Pharmaceuticals is focused on developing innovative medicines for serious diseases, specifically with its cannabinoid-based treatments, like CRB-913 for obesity.

How does CRB-913 differ from other obesity treatments?

CRB-913 shows a lower brain-to-plasma ratio than previous CB1-targeting drugs, potentially resulting in fewer CNS-related side effects and offering a more targeted treatment for obesity.

What is the market potential for cannabis and obesity treatments?

The cannabis industry is projected to exceed $170 billion by 2032, while the obesity treatment market is expected to reach around $100 billion by 2030, highlighting significant growth opportunities.